China's Defense Minister Vows to Curb 'Taiwan Independence' 🌟
In a bold statement at the 21st Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun declared that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is ready to take decisive action to prevent \"Taiwan independence\" 🚀.
\"We countries in the Asia-Pacific have the ability to resolve tensions among ourselves; we despise coercion from outside hegemonic powers,\" Dong said, emphasizing regional unity and proposing six measures to safeguard security and stability in the Asia-Pacific 🌏.
Standing Firm on the Taiwan Question 🐉
Dong reiterated that the Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests. He stressed that the one-China principle is a basic norm of international relations, recognized worldwide 🌐.
\"Safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity is the sacred mission of the Chinese military,\" he affirmed. While committed to peaceful reunification, he pointed out that prospects are being undermined by \"Taiwan independence\" elements and external forces ⚠️.
He criticized the Taiwan authorities for promoting \"incremental independence\" and \"de-sinicization,\" which attempts to sever the historical and cultural ties across the Taiwan Strait 🌊. Dong also called out external forces for their \"evil intentions\" in selling arms to Taiwan and engaging in official exchanges, leading the region into a dangerous situation 🚫.
China's Peaceful Defense Policy 🕊️
\"China values peace and harmony. Peaceful development is an integral part of our Constitution. We never seek hegemony or military expansion,\" Dong highlighted. He noted that since the introduction of reform and opening up, China has downsized the PLA by over 4 million troops, showcasing its commitment to peace ✌️.
Dong emphasized that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and that China opposes the law of the jungle. He asserted that the Chinese military upholds open cooperation, engaging with over 150 countries 🤝.
He also criticized the formation of exclusive military alliances, stating that \"small circles\" targeting other countries only intensify tensions 🔥. \"What we need is to work together,\" he added, advocating for collaboration over confrontation 💪.
Calling for Better China-U.S. Military Ties 🇨🇳🤝🇺🇸
Addressing China-U.S. relations, Dong noted that stable military ties between the two nations are crucial for global security. \"China is always open to exchanges and cooperation, but both sides should work to meet each other halfway,\" he said 🛣️.
He called for increased communication between the two militaries to find ways to coexist peacefully and create positive expectations for the world 🌍.
On Global Crises: Ukraine and Palestine 🌎
When discussing the crisis in Ukraine, Dong stated that China is committed to promoting peace and has not provided weapons to any side of the conflict. \"China firmly stands on the side of peace and dialogue,\" he emphasized 🕊️.
Regarding the Palestine-Israel conflict, he said China is working with the international community to promote a ceasefire and end hostilities, reflecting China's dedication to global peace efforts ✨.
Reference(s):
Chinese defense minister says PLA ready to curb 'Taiwan independence'
cgtn.com
