On November 8, 2021, Chinese President Xi Jinping, also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, quoted the proverb “The skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible” at the Sixth Plenary Session of the 19th CPC Central Committee. (https://youtu.be/bUE_GjyjeLk)

The phrase comes from The Art of War, an ancient Chinese military treatise dating from the late Spring and Autumn Period, roughly the 5th century B.C., and is attributed to prominent strategist Sun Tzu.

The Art of War is one of the world’s earliest known treatises on warfare strategy. The skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible. In other words, preparedness is key to victory.

August 1 is the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Since 2012, guided by Xi’s vision on national defense, the PLA has improved its combat readiness, mindful of emerging challenges. However, China will not abuse its increased capabilities to project power internationally.

China is a peace-loving country with a military that is defensive in nature.

And its strengthened preparedness aims to deter offensives. In addition, the PLA plays a pivotal role in coping with emergencies at home and helping maintain world peace.

Service people provide relief during floods and other natural disasters. They have joined China’s response to COVID-19, and also participate in UN peacekeeping operations in conflict-ridden areas.

Diametrically opposed to hegemony and power politics, China will never pursue an expansionist policy. But it will not allow its sovereignty, security and development interests to be compromised, let alone see its territory subject to aggression or division. When called for duty, Chinese military personnel will respond rapidly and resolutely.

The PLA’s equipment has been upgraded in recent years, with the commissioning of domestically built aircraft carriers as well as state-of-the-art fighter jets and ballistic missiles. With the assistance of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System, information technology has revolutionized the way the PLA operates.

Its members have also become more motivated and better trained to live up to new expectations.

The world today faces profound changes unseen in a century.

The Chinese nation has achieved a tremendous transformation: It has stood up, become better off, and grown in strength. The continued evolution of the international landscape is hastening reforms to global governance, and COVID-19 is adding to uncertainty.

It is imperative that China build a strong military commensurate with its international role and in line with its need to safeguard its national interests.

Only with military preparedness, can a country effectively defend itself and develop in peace.

Company Name: Center for the Americas, China International Communications Group

Contact Person: Ding Ying

Email: dingying@cicgamericas.com

Country: People’s Republic of China

Website: https://youtu.be/bUE_GjyjeLk