国内英语新闻:China honors outstanding demobilized soldiers

BEIJING, Nov. 25 (Xinhua) -- An awarding ceremony was held here Wednesday to honor 214 outstanding demobilized soldiers in the country.

    President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with the retired servicemen at the Great Hall of the People and congratulated them on their achievements.

Chinese leaders Hu Jintao (R Front), Wen Jiabao (2nd R) and Li Changchun (1st R) meet with demobilized soldiers who will receive awards prior to an awarding ceremony held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 25, 2009.

Vice Premier Hui Liangyu delivered a speech at the ceremony, in which he hailed the demobilized soldiers as the treasures of the country.

    They played an important role in boosting the modernization drive, Hui said.

    Hui urged all retired servicemen to make greater contribution to the country's economic development and social stability.