Chinese President Xi Jinping stirred global attention on Wednesday as he called for an accelerated push to build world-class military forces. Speaking at a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Xi outlined his vision for a modern, high-tech military capable of safeguarding China's sovereignty and contributing to global stability.
At the grand gathering, Xi emphasized that the People's Liberation Army remains the 'heroic armed forces' that the Party and people trust. He urged all service members to embrace cutting-edge technologies—from artificial intelligence to cyber warfare—while upholding the armed forces' core values.
Why it matters:
- Rising global competition: As defense spending climbs worldwide, China's military modernization could shift regional power balances.
- Tech innovation race: Xi's call spotlights emerging fields like unmanned systems and quantum communications.
- Climate and security: A world-class force may play a role in disaster relief and peacekeeping missions, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Global perspective:
For young entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, Xi's remarks signal opportunities in defense-related startups and dual-use technologies. Thought leaders will watch how military modernization meshes with discussions on human rights and international law. Sports and entertainment fans might note that military parades often feature advanced equipment that captures public imagination.
Looking ahead:
Building a world-class military is a long game. Analysts point to steady budget increases—averaging around 6% annually—and a shift toward quality over quantity. The emphasis on strategic support for 'national rejuvenation' and 'world peace' suggests Beijing wants a force that projects strength without destabilizing global norms.
For global nomads and travellers, the push raises questions about future geopolitical hotspots and the role of military diplomacy in international exchanges. As nations grapple with security challenges from cybersecurity to climate-driven crises, Xi's vision could reshape defense strategies far beyond the region.
Stay tuned: As Xi's plan unfolds, we'll track how technology firms, policy circles, and young activists respond to one of the world's most ambitious military modernization efforts.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
