A Chinese defense spokesperson has reaffirmed that China’s military development is solely aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests, as well as promoting international and regional peace and stability.
Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made these remarks on Friday in response to media inquiries regarding the Defense of Japan 2024 white paper, which includes content related to tensions in the Taiwan Strait and the China-Russia joint maritime patrol.
“The defense white paper is filled with clichés, misleading the international community and providing pretexts for its military buildup,” Zhang said, adding that China deplores and rejects it, and has lodged stern representations with Japan.
Zhang emphasized that it is legitimate and justified for China to conduct maritime and air activities in accordance with international law and relevant domestic laws.
He identified separatist activities promoting “Taiwan independence” and the support from external forces as the greatest threats to peace in the Taiwan Strait at present.
Regarding defense cooperation between China and Russia, Zhang stated that it is built on the basis of non-alliance, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party. He emphasized that this cooperation contributes to maintaining international and regional peace and stability, as well as upholding international equity and justice.
“History has already proven, and will continue to prove, that China has always been a force for peace, stability, and progress in the world,” Zhang noted.
“We urge Japan to draw lessons from history, stop slandering China and interfering in China’s internal affairs, speak and act with prudence on issues of military security, and earn the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community through concrete actions,” he added.
(With input from Xinhua)
Reference(s):
China's military development aimed for national security, world peace
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