On August 1, China's Defense Minister Li Shangfu issued a strong warning against attempts at Taiwan independence and foreign military intervention during a speech marking the 99th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army.
According to state-run Xinhua News Agency, Li stated during a reception in Beijing that he would fulfill the "sacred mission" of safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests. He emphasized, "We will resolutely thwart any attempts at Taiwan independence and external military intervention in any form."
Li also called for greater unity around the Party Central Committee, led by Xi Jinping, to advance military modernization to a higher level. He added, "We will comprehensively enhance our combat capabilities to be ready for battle at any time."
In discussing China's role in the international community, he stressed the importance of cooperating with like-minded forces to jointly respond to actions that threaten regional peace and stability.
Li's remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions surrounding the Taiwan Strait. Following the election of pro-independence President Lai Ching-te in Taiwan, relations with China have become increasingly strained. China has intensified military pressure through blockade drills and displays of military aircraft and naval vessels around Taiwan.
As the United States expands arms sales to Taiwan and continues freedom of navigation operations in the Taiwan Strait, China views these actions as direct infringements on its core interests.
Li's statements are interpreted as a strong warning to both Taiwan's internal independence factions and Western powers, including the United States, against crossing military red lines.
With the People's Liberation Army approaching its 100th anniversary next year, it is expected to accelerate its military modernization while maintaining a hardline stance on the Taiwan issue, suggesting that tensions between the two sides will persist.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.