China’s Defense Chief Urges Military to Support Political Stability

(MENAFN) Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun has urged the armed forces to assist in preserving “internal and external” stability as the nation conducts its yearly political assemblies in Beijing, a report published Tuesday indicates.

Dong delivered these comments amid the ongoing “Two Sessions,” the annual convenings of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), according to a media outlet.

These sessions, which started last week in Beijing, assemble thousands of delegates from across the country. Dong is participating as a deputy representing the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in the 14th NPC.

“Efforts should be made to shape a secure and stable internal and external environment and safeguard the period of strategic opportunity,” Dong emphasized to legislators, including members of the military and armed police units.

He further stated that the military “should stabilize the situation and shape the momentum … serve the broader political and diplomatic agenda, conduct resolute and effective struggle, stabilize and manage the situation effectively, and firmly grasp the strategic initiative.”

Dong, 65, who has a background as a maritime commander, was appointed China’s defense minister in December 2023 after his predecessor, Gen. Li Shangfu, was removed from the role.

The report noted that Dong’s speech referenced stability more often than topics like military modernization or combat preparedness.

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