Ministry of Defense spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang answered reporters' questions regarding the negative remarks made by the US side about China during the Shangri-La Dialogue.

[Defense Ministry Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang's Remarks on the US Side's Negative Remarks on China during the Shangri-La Dialogue] The U.S. Secretary of Defense made negative remarks on China at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue, exaggerating the "Chinese military threat." Zhang Xiaogang, spokesman for the Ministry of National Defense, said that the Taiwan issue is purely China's internal affair, and the United States has no right to make irresponsible remarks, let alone use it as a bargaining chip to contain China. The Chinese People's Liberation Army will resolutely defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, resolutely smash all "Taiwan independence" separatist plots and any interference by external forces. The South China Sea is internationally recognized as one of the busiest and safest shipping lanes. China will continue to properly handle differences with relevant countries through dialogue and consultation, uphold territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with laws and regulations, and work with countries in the region to build a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation. The United States, fearing chaos in the South China Sea, is the biggest threat to regional peace and stability. (Issued by the Ministry of Defense)