China's defense chief vows to address global security challenges

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun said Friday that the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) stands ready to work with all forces of justice to jointly oppose actions that undermine international and regional peace and stability, address global security challenges, and demonstrate through concrete actions the responsibility and commitment of a major country's armed forces.

Dong made the remarks at a grand reception held by the Ministry of National Defense at the Great Hall of the People to celebrate the 99th founding anniversary of the PLA, which falls on August 1.

Dong noted that this year marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China and the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Red Army's Long March, and said the people's armed forces have carried forward their glorious traditions and fine conduct, ensuring their loyalty to the Party.

Stressing the commitment to being fully prepared for any contingency, Dong said the people's armed forces will advance high-quality modernization of national defense and the armed forces and speed up the development of advanced combat capabilities.

He also said the Chinese military will serve as a steadfast bulwark for China's national reunification and resolutely thwart any attempt at "Taiwan independence" separatism or external military interference, so as to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

(With input from Xinhua)