In a recent development, Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, expressed strong dissatisfaction with a report released by the U.S. Department of Defense concerning China's military and security developments.
Zhang criticized the report for distorting China's national defense policy and interfering in its internal affairs. He accused the United States of attempting to discredit the Chinese military and exaggerate the so-called \"Chinese military threat.\"
The spokesperson emphasized that China is committed to peaceful development and maintains a defensive national defense policy. Zhang highlighted the United States' involvement in military operations in countries like Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan, which he claimed have led to severe humanitarian crises.
Regarding China's nuclear strategy, Zhang stated that the country adheres to a self-defense nuclear strategy and a no-first-use (NFU) policy for nuclear weapons, keeping its nuclear forces at a minimum level necessary for national security.
He also addressed concerns about the trilateral cooperation between the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia on nuclear-powered submarines, arguing that it negatively impacts the international nuclear non-proliferation system and threatens regional peace and stability.
Zhang highlighted the importance of the China-U.S. military relationship, noting that China values open and effective communication through military diplomatic channels. He expressed hope that the United States would adopt a positive and rational view of China's military development, promoting peace, stability, and trust in military exchanges.
However, Zhang criticized the United States for releasing what he called irresponsible reports annually, urging the U.S. to cease fabricating false narratives and to correct its perceptions of China to foster healthy and stable bilateral military relations.
Reference(s):
Spokesperson: China opposes U.S. report on its military development
cgtn.com
