In a recent press conference, Wu Qian, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, emphasized that the United States should take the initiative in reducing its military expenditure and nuclear arsenal. Highlighting the principle of 'America First,' Wu argued that as the holder of the world's largest nuclear arsenal, the United States bears a special responsibility for nuclear disarmament.
Wu Qian's remarks come in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of upcoming nuclear arms control talks with China and Russia, as well as his proposal to halve the defense budgets of these three nations. The spokesperson stressed that China remains committed to a no first use policy regarding nuclear weapons and maintains its nuclear capabilities solely for self-defense, keeping its arsenal at the minimum level necessary for national security.
Addressing the broader issue of defense spending, Wu pointed out that U.S. military expenditures have consistently ranked at the top globally, surpassing the combined defense budgets of the next eight countries. He reiterated the call for the United States to practice 'America First' by leading the way in significant and meaningful reductions in both its nuclear and military spending.
Reference(s):
U.S. should cut own military expenditure first: Chinese spokesperson
cgtn.com
