Beijing: Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun has urged the military to maintain 'internal and external' stability during China's significant political gatherings in Beijing.
According to Anadolu Agency, Dong addressed the military's role in ensuring a secure and stable environment during the ongoing 'Two Sessions,' which are the annual assemblies of the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
The meetings, which commenced last week, gather thousands of delegates in Beijing. Dong, attending as a deputy for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in the 14th NPC, emphasized the military's responsibility in stabilizing the situation and supporting the broader political and diplomatic agenda. His comments highlighted the importance of grasping strategic initiatives while managing and stabilizing situations effectively.
Dong, a maritime commander by training, assumed the role of defense minister in December 2023, following the removal of Gen. Li Shangfu. Notably, Dong's remarks focused more on stability than on military modernization or combat readiness.
Chinese President Xi Jinping also addressed the military's loyalty during these political meetings. Xi underscored the absence of any tolerance for disloyalty within the People's Liberation Army and highlighted the need to enhance political loyalty in the military. His comments come amidst ongoing investigations within the military, with two senior generals, Zhang Youxia and Gen. Liu Zhenli, under scrutiny for suspected disciplinary and legal violations since January.
With the investigations, the Central Military Commission, led by Xi, currently has only two active members, including Xi and Vice Chairman Zhang Shengmin.
Military spokesman Zhang Xiaogang conveyed the military's commitment to Xi's leadership. He stated that the military deputies at the NPC have pledged to implement the system of ultimate responsibility under the CMC chairman. The military has also committed to deepening political rectification, strengthening military training and combat readiness, and advancing high-quality development.
Regarding defense spending, Zhang mentioned that the military would focus on integrating mechanization, informatization, and smart technologies to enhance advanced combat capabilities. China's defense budget has been increased by approximately 7% this year, with an allocation of about $275 billion for the current fiscal period.