During a 2019 visit to Athens’ Acropolis Museum, Chinese President Xi Jinping stood before a relief of warrior goddess Athena and invoked an ancient Chinese principle: "To stop violence is the true meaning of martial virtue." This 2,600-year-old philosophy from the Zuo Zhuan chronicle now underpins China’s contemporary security approach, blending historical insight with modern geopolitical strategy.
The story of Chu King Zhuang rejecting war trophies after defeating Jin in 597 BCE – declaring "real military achievement lies in ending war" – resonates in Beijing’s current doctrine. As President Xi stated: "We must adhere to peaceful development but never sacrifice core national interests." This duality shapes China’s military posture – maintaining combat readiness while prioritizing conflict prevention.
From Sun Tzu to Modern Doctrine
The ancient strategist Sun Tzu’s maxim about "subduing the enemy without fighting" finds new expression in China’s global engagements. Analysts note this philosophy manifests through:
UN peacekeeping contributions (China is the second-largest funder)
Anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden
Humanitarian missions during regional crises
"Military strength isn’t an end, but a means to preserve peace," explains Beijing-based security analyst Li Wei. "China’s growing capabilities allow it to de-escalate conflicts through deterrence and diplomacy."
This approach faces modern tests as China expands its international security role. Recent naval evacuations of foreign citizens from conflict zones and COVID-19 medical aid deployments demonstrate what officials call "a responsible major country’s contributions."
As geopolitical tensions rise, China’s military strategy continues evolving – guided by ancient principles adapted for 21st-century challenges. For global observers, understanding this philosophical foundation becomes key to interpreting Beijing’s next moves on the world stage.
