BEIJING - President Xi Jinping on Wednesday stressed the importance of training commanding officers capable of leading joint warfare.

In an inspection tour of the National Defence University of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), Xi noted that this goal should be the university's priority.

He urged the university to improve educational theories and training models for a more competent and professional faculty.

Xi, also chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), promised that the CMC will also harness the efforts of military headquarters and armed forces for the training of commanding officers.

Xi urged the military academy to seek breakthroughs in warfare strategies to create a "military theory that is up-to-date, pioneering and unique."

They were encouraged to closely follow global military changes, research information technology's role in military operations and address major problems in the country's combat readiness.

They are also expected to better carry out their duty as a think tank for the Party leadership and the CMC.