Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the need to accelerate the development of a world-class military during a high-profile speech commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The address highlighted the military's evolving role in both national security and global stability.
"The Chinese People's Liberation Army has been, and will always be, the heroic armed forces that the Party and people can fully trust," Xi declared to attendees at Wednesday's gathering. His remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions and technological competition across Asia.
The Chinese leader outlined three core objectives for military modernization: safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, supporting national rejuvenation efforts, and contributing to international peace initiatives. Analysts suggest this vision aligns with China's growing economic influence and its aspirations for multipolar global governance.
Xi's call for military advancement specifically referenced the need for "strategic support" in achieving the country's development goals while maintaining cross-strait stability. The speech avoided direct references to contemporary security challenges but emphasized historical continuity through its venue choice – a symbolic nod to China's wartime resilience.
Defense experts note that China's military spending has grown in parallel with its economic expansion, with recent focus on naval capabilities, cyber warfare systems, and space technology. The address did not announce new policy measures but reinforced existing modernization priorities outlined in China's current five-year plan.
