The Chinese Ministry of Defense has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing Taiwanese independence, emphasizing that increased separatist threats will lead to intensified military pressure. In a statement during the recent “Two Sessions” political event, spokesperson Wu Qian indicated that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) serves as a counterforce to separatism and fosters national reunification. Wu highlighted the complex security challenges China faces in maintaining sovereignty and territorial integrity. Concurrently, China announced a 7.2% increase in its defense budget, positioning the nation as having the second-largest military budget worldwide, projected at approximately $245 billion for 2025, which remains less than one-third of US military expenditures. This defense expenditure represents 1.6% of China’s GDP for 2024. Since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, when remnants of the Kuomintang settled in Taiwan, Beijing has upheld the “One China” principle, asserting that both the People’s Republic and Taiwan cannot be simultaneously recognized. This strategic stance is critical as it underscores China’s broader geopolitical aspirations and the ongoing tensions in East Asia.
