China Prepares for War: Xi Jinping Makes Important Statement

• 20.10.2024, 8:46

Days after large-scale military exercises near Taiwan.

Chinese state media reported on Saturday, October 19, that Chinese leader Xi Jinping called on troops to step up their combat readiness. The reports came just days after the Chinese army completed large-scale military exercises near Taiwan.

According to state broadcaster CCTV, Xi Jinping gave the order to the military while visiting a People's Liberation Army Rocket Force Brigade on Thursday, October 17. He said the army command should "comprehensively strengthen its preparations for war and ensure the troops have reliable combat readiness," and that soldiers should "strengthen their strategic deterrent and combat capabilities," Agence France-Presse reports.

China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, has stepped up its show of force around the self-ruled island in recent years, the publication notes. China's communist leaders have repeatedly said they would not rule out using force to retake Taiwan. In an address to the military, Xi Jinping stressed that the PRC military must "resolutely safeguard the country's strategic security and core interests."