Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun has issued a strong warning about Taiwan, stating that the Chinese military is ready to “forcefully” stop any move towards independence. He also called for more communication with the United States on this issue.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue conference in Singapore, Dong emphasized that Taiwan is a core issue for China. He accused Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party of trying to separate Taiwan from China and erasing Chinese identity. China considers Taiwan as part of its territory, despite Taiwan’s objections.
Last month, China held military exercises around Taiwan following the inauguration of Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te, whom China labels a “separatist.” Dong criticized recent statements from Taiwan’s leaders, calling them a betrayal of the Chinese nation. He insisted that China seeks peaceful reunification with Taiwan but will use military force if necessary to prevent Taiwan’s independence.
Dong said, “The Chinese People’s Liberation Army is a powerful force defending the unification of the motherland. It will act resolutely to stop Taiwan’s independence.” He warned that anyone trying to separate Taiwan from China would be “crushed to pieces.”
In response, Taiwan’s government expressed deep regret over Dong’s “provocative and irrational” remarks.
Dong’s comments came after his meeting with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. This was the first significant meeting between the defense leaders of China and the US in 18 months. They discussed the need for more communication between their militaries to manage their differences and avoid conflicts.
After the meeting, Austin announced that phone talks between US and Chinese military commanders would resume soon. This is part of ongoing efforts to reduce tensions between the two countries, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently visiting Beijing and Shanghai.
Dong also spoke about the South China Sea, where China has ongoing disputes with the Philippines and other countries. He warned that while China has shown restraint, there are limits, and accused the US of using the Philippines to cause trouble in the region.
This summary highlights the key points made by Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun regarding Taiwan and US-China military relations.