China’s Defense Chief Urges Army to Prioritize “Internal and External Stability”

(MENAFN) Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun has called on the military to focus on maintaining both domestic and international stability amid the country’s annual political gatherings in Beijing, according to reports on Tuesday.

Dong made the remarks during the “Two Sessions,” the concurrent meetings of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), where thousands of delegates convene to discuss national policy. Serving as a deputy representing the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in the 14th NPC, Dong emphasized that the military should actively contribute to shaping a secure environment, protecting China’s “period of strategic opportunity,” and maintaining the strategic initiative.

He instructed the PLA and armed police to stabilize situations, guide momentum in alignment with political and diplomatic objectives, and conduct “resolute and effective struggle” to manage internal and external challenges. Dong’s comments focused more on stability than on combat readiness or modernization.

Dong, 65, a former maritime commander, was appointed defense minister in December 2023 following the removal of Gen. Li Shangfu.

In parallel, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted military loyalty during the sessions, stating there is “no place” in the PLA for those disloyal to the Communist Party and calling for full leverage of political loyalty as a strategic strength within the armed forces.

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