By Senior Colonel Wu Qian, Director General of the Information Office of the Ministry of National Defense (MND) and Spokesperson for the MND

Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People's Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of Nov. 28, 2024. (mod.gov.cn/Photo by Zhang Zhicheng)

Wu Qian: Friends from the media, good afternoon. Welcome to this month's regular press conference of the Ministry of National Defense.

Wu Qian: I have four pieces of news to announce at the top.

Firstly, according to the consensus between the Chinese and Indonesian militaries, troops from the PLA Southern Theater Command will participate in the Peace Garuda-2024 joint HADR exercise from late November to early December. During the event, army, naval and air force elements from the two sides will conduct drills on search and detection, medical treatment, personnel evacuation and settlement, NBC (nuclear, biological and chemical) protection, parachute delivery, and carry out cultural and sports activities. This exercise, the first of its kind between the Chinese and Indonesian militaries, will help deepen bilateral cooperation, improve interoperability, and contribute to regional peace and stability.

Secondly, Admiral Miao Hua, member of the Central Military Commission (CMC) and Chief of the Political Work Department of the CMC, is suspected of serious violation of discipline. According to the decision of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Admiral Miao is suspended from duty pending investigation.

Thirdly, the PLA Army Engineering University and the Special Military School of St Cyr of France held exchange activities in Nanjing from November 25 to 27. The two sides carried out discussions on education in military academies, talent cultivation and other topics, and shared experience and practices with each other. The French delegation visited the teaching and training facilities of the Chinese side, and observed military skills training. This event has helped the two military academies to deepen cooperation and learn from each other in talent cultivation, thus promoting mutual trust between the two militaries.

Fourthly, the 10th International Symposium on Sun Tzu's Art of War will be held in Beijing from December 5 to 6. Up to now, over 350 Chinese and foreign delegates from nearly 30 countries have confirmed their participation.

Under the theme of "Sun Tzu's Art of War and Mutual Learning among Civilizations", the symposium comprises keynote speech, plenary sessions and special sessions. The 6 special sessions will focus on such topics as "Exploring Ways of Civilization Coexistence by Applying the Wisdom of Sun Tzu", "Contemporary Cultural Value of Sun Tzu's Art of War", and "When Sun Tzu's Mou Lve ( stratagems) Encounters the Intelligence Age", etc.

"The art of war is of vital importance to the state". We hope the symposium will be an opportunity for the participants to share their views and wisdom, and promote convergence and mutual learning among traditional Chinese military culture and cultural achievements of other diversified civilizations.

Question: Recently, President Xi Jinping met with US President Joe Biden in Lima, Peru. Against this backdrop, please brief us on China's views on the future China-US military relationship.

Wu Qian: President Xi points out that China and the US will gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation. Despite all the ups and downs in the China-US relations over the past several years, the two militaries maintained some dialogues and cooperation and kept a generally stable relationship. As two major countries in the world, China and the US should bear in mind the greater good, and inject more certainty and positive energy into a turbulent world. We hope the US side can work with us towards a same direction, take a positive and rational view of the growth of China and the Chinese military, and prioritize peace, stability and credibility as the basic principles of mil-to-mil engagement. On the basis of equality and respect, the two sides should build a mil-to-mil relationship featuring non-conflict and non-confrontation, open and substantive cooperation and gradual accumulation of mutual trust, so as to truly serve as a cornerstone for the stable development of overall China-US relations.

Question: It is reported that the Republic of Korea (ROK) handed-over the 11th batch of Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) martyrs' remains to the Chinese side on November 28. May I have your comment?

Wu Qian: On November 28, the ROK transferred the remains and belongings of 43 CPV martyrs to the Chinese side. The Chinese side sent Y-20 transport aircraft to carry the martyrs back home. The burial ceremony of the martyrs will be carried out at the CPV martyrs' cemetery in Shenyang. In accordance with international law and humanitarian principles, the ROK have handed over the remains of 981 CPV martyrs in 11 batches to China since 2014.

The mountains and rivers have expected you back for so long, and finally our heroes are home, safe and tranquil. Your loyalty never fades, and your bravery lasts forever. Today, we greet you with the highest national courtesy. Please be assured: your sacrifices and dedication will never be forgotten, and we are your eyes, witnessing for you the peace and prosperity that this land of charm and beauty enjoys today, owing to your heroic deeds.

Question: This month, President Xi Jinping met with the visiting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. According to the joint statement issued by the two sides, China and Indonesia will jointly build a new pillar of bilateral defense and security cooperation. Please brief us more on the development of China-Indonesia mil-to-mil relationship.

Wu Qian: China and Indonesia are traditional friendly neighbors. The two countries are good neighbors, good friends and good partners who share prosperity and security, and stick together through thick and thin. Under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, our two countries have opened a new chapter of jointly building a community with a shared future. In early November, President Xi Jinping met with visiting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The two leaders agreed to build "five pillar" cooperation covering political, economic, people-to-people exchange, maritime and security aspects. The joint statement issued after the meeting stated that security cooperation is an important manifestation of the strong strategic mutual trust between the two countries; the two sides will take this opportunity to carry out broader and deeper security cooperation in more areas.

During recent years, militaries of China and Indonesia have carried out close high-level exchanges, and achieved good results in joint exercises and training, ship visits, personnel training and multilateral coordination. Next year marks the 75th year of diplomatic ties between China and Indonesia. We are willing to join hands with the Indonesian side to implement the important consensus reached by the two state leaders, further strengthen high-level exchanges between the two militaries, improve defense dialogue mechanisms, have more mutual visits at the service level, bolster joint exercises, and deepen interactions between military academies and think-tanks. By doing so, the two sides will upgrade the military ties and jointly build a closer China-Indonesia community with a shared future.

Question: It has been about a month since the disengagement of front troops in eastern Ladakh. Standoff now has been eased and both sides have resumed patrols. Could you please give us more details? In addition, the defense ministers met for the first time, after the agreement reached, in Laos. Please provide us some details about the meeting.

Wu Qian: Regarding the first question, the Chinese and Indian militaries are implementing the resolutions on issues concerning the border areas reached by the two sides, and steady progress has been made. On your second question, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun met with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in Vientiane, Laos on the afternoon of November 20. The meeting was positive and constructive. The two sides agreed to deliver on the important consensus reached by the two state leaders, promote a stable development of mil-to-mil relationship, strictly abide by the recent common understanding reached by the two sides, and make efforts to deescalate tensions in the border areas. The two sides also emphasized the importance of focusing on enhancing mutual trust and conducting more exchanges and interactions between the two militaries.

We hope the two sides seize the opportunity and the good momentum to make new progress in mil-to-mil relationship. We also look forward to a harmonious dance between the Chinese dragon and the Indian elephant with concerted steps.

Question: In response to the lack of bilateral meeting between Chinese and US defense leaders during the 11th ADMM-Plus, the MND spokesperson stated that the responsibility lies entirely with the US side. Will this affect the communication with the next US Secretary of Defense? In addition, there are voices from the US side calling for military dialogues between the US and China. What is China's position on military dialogues with the US?

Wu Qian: The Chinese side does have a principle in developing China-US military relationship. That is: China's sovereignty, dignity and core interests are inviolable. A favorable atmosphere is needed for a meeting, and communications without principle is futile. The US side knows better than anyone else what it has done to harm China's core interests and needs not to feign innocence.

Question: It is reported that the PLAN vessels recently paid frequent visits to Hong Kong. A formation comprising of the PLANS Hainan and Changsha visited Hong Kong, and the sailing training ship PLANS Po Lang made a technical stop in Hong Kong. Please share with us more details. Are there special considerations behind these arrangements?

Wu Qian: In accordance with our annual plan, the formation comprising of the PLANS Hainan and Changsha visited Hong Kong from November 21 to 25. The two ships were opened to Hong Kong compatriots during such activities as deck reception, on-board visits, lectures on national defense knowledge, and cultural events. More than 300 people including Vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Leung Chun-ying, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR John Lee Ka-chiu and representatives of the Macao SAR government attended the deck reception on PLANS Hainan. From November 22 to 24, the PLANS Hainan and Changsha opened to the public respectively. Approximately 15,000 people from all walks of life, including Hong Kong and Macao citizens, young students and representatives of official institutions from Hong Kong and Macao, boarded the ships. Their feedback were quite positive. In addition, over 700 young students attended lectures on national defense, and gained a better understanding of the development and achievements of the PLA Navy.

From November 18 to 20, the sailing training ship PLANS Po Lang made a technical stop in Hong Kong and also held open activities for local people.

In recent years, the PLA Navy hosted ship open days in multiple coastal cities in China. This fully demonstrates the confidence and openness of the PLA Navy. Going forward, the PLA Navy will send its vessels to visit Hong Kong on a regular basis. Now, please watch a video.

Question: During President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Brazil, the two countries issued a joint statement, pointing out that the two countries have a potential for cooperation in defense and defense industry, and should strengthen high-level exchanges and explore new cooperation programs. Please give us more details on the China-Brazil military relations.

Wu Qian: President Xi Jinping attended the 19th G20 Summit and paid a state visit to Brazil in the second half of November. During his stay in Brazil, President Xi met with his Brazilian counterpart President Lula. The two state leaders signed and issued a joint statement, charting the course for the two countries to deepen defense cooperation in the future.

This year marks the 50th year of China-Brazil diplomatic relations. In recent years, the two militaries have strengthened exchanges at different levels and deepened mutual understanding. The Chinese side views and develops its mil-to-mil relationship with Brazil from a strategic perspective. We are willing to work with the Brazilian side to follow the strategic guidance of the two state leaders, further enhance cooperation between the two militaries, strengthen our capabilities to jointly handle challenges, and make positive contributions to building a China-Brazil community with a shared future for a more just world and a more sustainable planet.

Question: According to foreign reports, an anonymous Taiwan official claimed that Taiwan has submitted a military procurement list to the US through informal channels, with a total value of up to 15 billion US dollars. Some scholars believe that this means the Lai Ching-te authorities are telling the US that they acknowledge the principle of "protection fees". Many people in Taiwan believe that there is no need to buy weapons and it is meaningless. What's your comment?

Wu Qian: In disregard of the opposition of the public, the DPP authorities has volunteered to be a dumb cash machine used by the US, squandering hard-earned money of the Taiwan people to pay protection fees to the US. What they will get is not protection, but more exploitation. The Taiwan compatriots are quite clear that any attempt to seek independence by force is futile in front of the powerful PLA. If the DPP authorities insist on going down the wrong path, they will only court their own destruction.

Question: According to foreign media reports, the Philippine defense minister recently said that the Philippine side was considering purchasing Typhon mid-range missile system from the US. May I have your comment, please.

Wu Qian: China has repeatedly expressed our firm opposition to US deployment of mid-range missile system in the Philippines. The mid-range missile system is an offensive weapon. Accepting US deployment of the system by the Philippine side will directly intensify geopolitical confrontation and escalate tensions in the region. It is by no means a matter of the Philippine side itself, but hinges on the common security of regional countries. History and reality have repeatedly proven that where there are US weapons deployed, there will be higher risk of conflicts, inflicting undeserved sufferings on the local people.

The Asia-pacific is a grand stage for peace and development, not a wrestling ground for geopolitical rivalry. We urge relevant parties to withdraw the Typhon mid-range missile system immediately. If the US and the Philippines insist on heading down the wrong path, the Chinese side will take resolute countermeasures.

Question: According to media reports, China and the US held a meeting under the framework of the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement (MMCA) in early November. Please brief us on more details.

Wu Qian: The Chinese and US militaries held this year's second working group meeting and annual plenary session of the MMCA in Qingdao from November 6 to 8. The meeting aims at implementing the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and developing China-US military relationship in a stable, sound and sustainable way. Based on equality and respect, the two sides had candid and substantive exchanges on the current air and maritime safety and security situation between them, evaluated the execution of the Rules of Behavior for Safety of Air and Maritime Encounters (ROB) during the past year, discussed measures to improve military maritime safety and security, and exchanged views on the agenda items for MMCA 2025.

The Chinese side believes that such exchanges are conducive for the troops on the ground to interact more professionally and safely, and reduce the risks of misunderstanding and miscalculation. Meanwhile, we firmly oppose any action that undermines China's sovereignty and security in the name of freedom of navigation and overflight. We will continue to resolutely safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and uphold regional peace, stability and prosperity.

Question: According to the spokesperson of the US Department of Defense, US Secretary of Defense said at the ADMM-Plus that security cooperation between the US and ASEAN is conducive to building a more prosperous and stable region. He also pointed out that "coercive PRC activities in the South China Sea, the violence in Burma, and the Russian war against Ukraine" are major security challenges in today's world. What's your comment on this?

Wu Qian: US Secretary of Defense made groundless accusations against China at the ADMM-Plus, to which Admiral Dong Jun, the Chinese Defense Minister refuted on the spot. Minister Dong pointed out that the US side prods with and connives at a regional country to make provocations in the South China Sea for its selfish gains. This behavior severely undermines regional peace and stability, to which regional countries should keep high vigilance. The root causes behind the US acts lie in its entrenched Cold War mentality and hegemonic mindset. The US hypocrisy and double standards are fully exposed in the Ukraine crisis and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and are despised by all peace-loving peoples around the world. The Chinese side stays committed to handling disputes through friendly consultation, and working with regional countries to build the South China Sea into a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation. We urge the US side to stop fabricating lies, making provocations or stirring up troubles, and refrain from going further down the wrong path.

Question: According to media reports, China and Laos recently held the Peace Train-2024 joint exercise on humanitarian medical rescue. Can you share more about this joint exercise?

Wu Qian: According to the annual plan and consensus between the Chinese and Lao sides, the Peace Train-2024 joint exercise on humanitarian medical rescue was held in Phonhong and surrounding areas in Laos from November 14 to 21, with more than 700 participants in total. The Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun, and Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister General Chansamone jointly observed the medical service activities. Under the theme of "international humanitarian medical rescue for earthquake disasters", the exercise included the following phases: joint training in mixed groups, whole-process joint training and joint exercise. There are three points to highlight. First, a high level of jointness in command and planning. Second, a complete coverage of the whole process in disaster relief. Third, synchronized operations among various elements.

This is the fifth Peace Train exercise held by the two militaries. It further deepens cooperation and enhances emergency rescue capabilities of the two militaries.

Question: Recently, Admiral Rob Bauer, Chair of the Military Committee of the NATO, said in his speech in Maastricht that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is part of a worldwide power struggle between the US and China. It may lead to more regional conflicts in the future. What is your comment?

Wu Qian: China maintains an objective and impartial position on the Ukraine issue. We firmly oppose smearing China's image or shifting the blame to China on the Ukraine issue.

Question: It is reported that Lai Ching-te plans to stop in Hawaii during his foreign travel in late November or early December. Do you have any comment on this? Will the PLA take corresponding military countermeasures?

Wu Qian: We firmly oppose official interaction with China's Taiwan region by any country in any form. The one-China principle is a basic norm governing international relations and a widely recognized consensus by the international community. The political manipulations and provocations made by the DPP authorities to seek "Taiwan independence" will lead nowhere and can never stop the historical trend of China's reunification. We urge the US side to abide by the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-US joint communiqués, refrain from sending wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, and take concrete actions to maintain China-US relations and cross-Strait peace and stability. With the sacred mission of defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity on our shoulders, the PLA will resolutely smash any "Taiwan independence" separatist attempts and thwart any foreign interference.

Question: At the recent Zhuhai Airshow, many indigenous equipment including J-35A fighters made their debut, attracting high attention worldwide. Some people from the US said that China has become the second country after the US to possess two kinds of stealth fighter jets, which will pose a strong challenge to US air superiority. This also marks a key step for China in challenging the US's dominance in the Indo-Pacific. May I have your comment? Second, Japanese media recently reported that Japan and the US are developing a joint operations plan to deal with possible emergencies in the Taiwan region, including deploying missiles and rocket launchers on the Japanese islands closest to Taiwan. What is your comment?

Wu Qian: On your first question, this year's China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition was a complete success. There are five highlights worth noting: first, various types of weaponry and equipment made their debut. The J-35A medium-sized multi-role stealth fighter, the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile system, drones that integrate reconnaissance and strike, the J-15T carrier-based fighter, the J-15D carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft and the Z-20J carrier-based helicopter, all had their first public appearance. Second, exchanges and interactions were more open. Official delegations from 42 air forces participated in the event. Activities such as the International Military Flight Training Conference and the Seminar on Unmanned Intelligence attracted representatives from over 30 countries. Friends from foreign militaries extended birthday wishes to the PLA Air Force (PLAAF), showing the aspiration for "One Sky, One World" . The cargo compartment of the Y-20 aircraft was also open to the public for the first time. Third, the flying performances were spectacular. The Bayi Aerobatic Team and the Red Falcon Aerobatic Team of the PLA Air Force performed alongside the Russian Knights Aerobatic Team. Both the Mach ring of the J-35A and the falling-leaf-maneuver conducted by the Su-57 amazed the audience. Russian pilot Sergey Bogdan's solo flight across thousands of miles to participate in the exhibition sparked heated discussions among netizens. Fourth, the equipment displayed at the exhibition covered all domains and dimensions. The PLA Navy dispatched real-combat equipment to the airshow for the first time. And it's also the first time for the airshow to display assets in the air, at sea and on the ground. By demonstrating assets covering all domains of land, sea, air, space, electronics and cyber, the airshow demonstrated the overall development and achievements of China in aviation, aerospace and national defense, highlighting the progress made in cutting-edge technologies. Fifth, a number of unmanned intelligent equipment were showcased at the airshow. Unmanned aircraft and unmanned vessels were displayed in a designated area. The Ocralarge unmanned combat vessel, the Machine Wolf combat squad, and the Baidi aerospace fighter model attracted great attention the moment they made their appearance. The unmanned intelligent equipment left the audience with the impression that "the past is not yet past, but the future has already arrived".

Every November is a high-profile moment for the PLAAF, and this year is particularly so. 75 years ago, the PLAAF started its journey from scratch and was able to defeat powerful aggressors when it was still small. From the early days when we had too few planes that the same planes had to fly twice to complete the national day parade, to the ongoing pursuit of "integrated air and space capabilities for both offensive and defensive tasks", the PLAAF has gone through an extraordinary journey. As the PLAAF grows, we understand that some countries may not feel comfortable, but spreading rumors and lies is by no means the right thing to do. It is known to all that the growth of the Chinese military contributes to the growth of the force for peace in the world. China does not seek hegemony, and will never tolerate bullying from hegemonic powers. The 75-year-old PLAAF is in its prime. Under the strong leadership of the CPC, it will embrace a bright future. Please watch a video.

On your second question, Taiwan belongs to China. It is not the business of either Japan or the US. So what do they need to deal with? If the media reports are true, the relevant moves by the US and Japan are extremely dangerous. No matter what happens, the PLA will take resolute and effective measures to thwart external interference and smash any separatist attempt for "Taiwan independence".

Question: President Xi Jinping recently signed a decree to publish the Provisional Regulations on the Management of Reserve Force Personnel. Please further brief us on this regulation.

Wu Qian: The Chinese military has always attached great importance to building a capable Reserve Force. The Provisional Regulations on the Management of Reserve Force Personnel, approved and issued by the Central Military Commission, took effect on November 1, 2024. This is a concrete measure to deepen reform of the Reserve Force, a timely effort to strengthen the management system of the Reserve Force, and one of the outcomes of military human resources reform. It is significant for the efficient and effective management of reserve personnel in accordance with law, and for building a high-quality and professional Reserve Force at a faster pace.

The Regulations consists of 8 chapters and 45 articles, with improvement made in the following aspects: first, on personnel selection and recruitment. Based on the actual demand for national defense and in line with the authorized list of positions, the Regulations streamlined the recruitment process for reserve force personnel, specifying eligibility, requirement, authorizations and procedures, so that qualified civilian talent be attracted to and apply for the Reserve Force.

Second, on management of posts and ranks. To institutionalize the appointment and promotion of reserve force personnel, the requirements, authorizations and procedures for the appointment, rank conferment and promotion of reserve force personnel are clarified, so as to ensure that an appropriate number of posts are set in accordance with actual demand, promotions are based on competence, and capability matches posts.

Third, on training and assessment. To develop and enhance the capability of reserve force personnel, targeted training programs such as recruitment training, on-post training, vocational training and military professional education are set up for reserve personnel. The timing, contents, authorizations, procedures, results, grading and application of examinations for reserve force personnel are standardized. These measures are conducive to developing and enhancing the capabilities of reserve force personnel to perform their duties.

Fourth, on benefits and support. Appropriate compensation is provided to reserve personnel based on their duties and contributions. An allowances scheme will be available for reserve force personnel. Those who participate in military training, perform combat readiness duties or carry out military operations other than war, will be eligible for benefits in medical insurance, accommodation, compensation, special pension for injury, as well as other preferential treatment. These measures aim to motivate reserve personnel to better serve and perform their duties.

Fifth, on demobilization. To maintain a stable reserve force and ensure an orderly replacement of personnel, the conditions, timing and relevant procedures for decommission from reserve service are specified to formalize the demobilization process.

Question: Kyodo News reported on November 21 that Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen expressed serious concerns about the activities of the Chinese military around Japan during his meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun in Laos on the same day. He also stated that it is extremely important for the defense ministries of the two countries to maintain open communications. What's your comment? My second question is that on the 25th of this month, Taiwan media reported that the defense authorities of the Taiwan region announced that the air raid alert range would be narrowed from 70 nautical miles from the coast of Taiwan Island to 24 nautical miles, which means that the Taiwan people only have three minutes to respond to the alert. Wellington Koo, the official in charge of defense affairs in Taiwan, said that this is mainly due to the PLA's continuous crossing of the so-called "median line of the Taiwan Strait ". What is your comment?

Wu Qian: On the afternoon of November 21, Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun and Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen held a candid and constructive meeting in Vientiane, Laos. Admiral Dong Jun refuted the groundless accusations of the Japanese side. He emphasized that the Japanese side should abide by the four political documents between China and Japan, and truly act on the important consensus of "being each other's cooperative partners, not a threat" and promote a "mutually beneficial strategic relationship". The two defense leaders also talked about future defense exchange programs between the two sides.

China and Japan are close neighbors. The significance of China-Japan relationship exceeds bilateral scope. It is important for the two sides to develop their defense relations from an overall and long-term perspective. We hope the Japanese side can work with China in the same direction, setting the right course for development and deepening substantive cooperation, so as to jointly maintain overall stability of the China-Japan relations and regional peace and stability.

Before answering your second question, I want to clarify that Taiwan is part of China. There is no such thing as the "median line of the Taiwan Strait". The DPP authorities have been playing up the alleged "mainland's military threat" to use it as an excuse to deceive the Taiwan people and politically manipulate the "anti-China" narrative. The root cause of the current tensions in the Taiwan Strait is that the DPP authorities stubbornly stick to the separatist position of "Taiwan independence" and collude with external forces to constantly seek "independence" and stir up provocations. The moves taken by the PLA are legitimate and necessary measures to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity and maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The attempt of "seeking independence by force" by the DPP is a dead end and will only lead to their own destruction.

Question: Recently, the US and the Philippines signed a security agreement on military intelligence, which allows the two countries to share classified information. The US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said that the Mutual Defense Treaty applies to armed conflicts in the South China Sea. What's your take on this?

Wu Qian: We believe that defense and security cooperation between relevant countries should be conducive to regional peace and stability, not target any third party, still less harm regional peace and stability. Forming small exclusive alliances, showing off military power, and instigating confrontation in the South China Sea will only intensify tensions and undermine regional stability.

The US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty is a product of the Cold War. The US side has no right to use the Treaty to interfere in maritime disputes between China and the Philippines. Military cooperation between the Philippines and the US should not undermine China's territorial sovereignty or maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. The root cause of heightened tensions between China and the Philippines at Ren'ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao is that the Philippine side has violated the DOC and reneged on its promises. It has frequently provoked and stirred up troubles to undermine China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and attempting to solicit external forces to embolden itself.

China has sovereignty over the Nan Hai Zhu Dao and its adjacent waters. We will resolutely safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, continue to take all necessary countermeasures to respond to infringements and provocations, and firmly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Question: It is reported that the Central Military Commission recently issued the Rules on Work related to Letters and Visits in the Military. Please further elaborate on this Rules.

Wu Qian: The Central Military Commission recently issued the Rules on Work Related to Letters and Visits in the Military. The Rules shall be implemented on a trial basis starting from January 1, 2025.

The Rules were formulated in line with the Political Work Regulations in the Military and the Regulations on Letters and Visits, and were based on the realities of the military. The Rules stipulates the scope of application, guiding principles and channels for work related to letters and visits, and regulates the matters to be presented by letter-writers or visitors, how such letters and visits be handled at various military organs, and the accountability mechanism, etc..

The promulgation and implementation of the Rules is of great significance as it serves the reform and development of the military, protects the legitimate rights and interests of service members and the general public, and promotes the safety and stability of the military and the society at large.

Question: It is reported that China and Singapore held the Cooperation-2024 joint army training recently. Please share with us more details.

Wu Qian: From November 17 to 28, China and Singapore held the Cooperation-2024 joint army training in a military base in Henan province. This is the sixth joint training between the two armies. Under the theme of "Urban Joint Counter-terrorism Operations", the exercise simulated urban neighborhoods as a real combat environment, which allowed the troops to study and practice joint counter-terrorism operational tactics in complex urban environment. The participants conducted the training in mixed groups, jointly completed all training subjects, and explored joint mechanism in command and planning and interoperability. Training and combat capabilities of the two sides were enhanced through the joint training.

China and Singapore are friendly neighbors and important cooperative partners to each other. The Chinese side is ready to further deepen cooperation in various fields with the Singaporean side, so as to contribute to peace and development of the two countries, and to regional security and stability.

Question: Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, said at an international security forum this month that Russia is very likely to provide technology to help China build new and better submarines, which will challenge the superiority of the US under the sea. He also said that the increasingly close partnership between China, Russia, the DPRK and Iran is making them more dangerous. What is your comment? Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair  called for an increase in military spending in a speech at the end of this month. He said that China is carrying out the largest military expansion in the world after World War II and cited this as one of the reasons why Canada needs to increase its defense spending. What is your comment?

Wu Qian: On your first question, the remarks made by certain US officials are full of zero-sum mindset and Cold War mentality, which provokes bloc confrontation. We firmly oppose this. China believes that rivalry between major powers go against the trend of the times. We urge the US side to stop smearing and hyping, and stop inciting confrontation.

On your second question, the Chinese military has always been a staunch force for safeguarding world peace, which has long been recognized by the international community.

On the contrary, some countries, such as Canada, always make an issue of China or shift the blame to China. We urge relevant countries to stop making groundless accusations against China, reflect on themselves, and truly do something for world peace and security.

If you have no other questions, I would like to say a few words.

The press conferences in November are always closely related to aviation. The Zhuhai Airshow amazed the world, and the Y-20 transport aircraft brought Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) martyrs' remains back to China. All this is inseparable from the cradle of China's aviation talent, Beihang University. Today, we're glad to have teachers and students from the university to observe the press conference.

Beihang University was born during the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea and is the first university for aviation and aerospace in the PRC. It carries the revolutionary traditions of patriotism and commitment to the Party and has cultivated many role models of "serving the country's undertakings in aviation and aerospace" such as Wang Yongzhi and Luo Yang. In today's turbulent world, defense security is of great significance. We hope students from Beihang University can stay true to your original aspirations and pursue your dreams while serving the country and the people with your knowledge and expertise. I also wish you every success in achieving your aspirations and dreams.

That concludes today's press conference. Thank you.