China
China issues 2008 White Paper on National Defense
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Vowing to strengthen the military using science and technology, the paper says China is working to develop new and high-tech weaponry and equipment, conduct military training in an advanced environment and build a modern logistics system.
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On the topic of China's military strategic guidelines on active defense, the paper says China aims to win wars using the latest technology and information.
The paper also specified for the first time in detail China's long-standing policy of only using nuclear weapons to retaliate. It reaffirmed the country's will to implement a self-defensive nuclear strategy. Under the direct command of the Central Military Commission, its nuclear capabilities aim to deter a nuclear strike from other countries. But, in peacetime, it says China's nuclear weapons are not aimed at any country.
Hu Changming, senior colonel of Ministry of Defense, said, "China will adhere to the path of peaceful development and pursue a purely-defensive national defense policy. Protecting our national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity are our highest priorities. We are devoted to building our defense and military forces suited for national security and development. China will never seek hegemony or engage in military expansion now or in the future."
The paper reviewed the last three decades of China's defense expenditure, saying it has remained at a reasonable and appropriate level.
The paper also for the first time devoted separate chapters to the army, navy, air force and nuclear capabilities, introducing their capacities and functions.
As the world goes deeper into an era of information, China is vowing to continue its modernization using the latest technology and science. And China's national defense provides the guarantee for maintaining security and unity, while realizing the goal of building a moderately prosperous society.
Editor:Liu Anqi
