Xi Jinping Advocates Strengthened Border, Sea, and Air Defences

China's President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of robust border, sea, and air defences to safeguard the nation's territorial sovereignty and maritime interests. This message was conveyed during a collective study session of the Communist Party's politburo. Xi also highlighted the need for technological empowerment as China navigates rising regional tensions.

China's President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need for strong border, sea, and air defences to protect the country's territorial sovereignty and maritime interests, state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Wednesday.

Xi's remarks came during a collective study session of the Communist Party's politburo. These sessions, occurring every few months, provide insight into the leadership's current priorities. Notably, Xi recently appointed a new head of the armed forces overseeing China's missiles, just before the 96th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army on Aug. 1.

In June 2024, a similar session focused on party governance and corruption. The party subsequently removed Defence Minister Li Shangfu and PLA Rocket Force commander Li Yuchao for corruption. Xi stressed the need to align border, sea, and air defence efforts with the economic and social development of coastal and border areas.

Xi also called for advancements in technology to bolster defence capabilities. The Chinese government has increased its defence budget by 7.2% for 2024, maintaining similar growth to the previous year's budget, and outpacing economic growth forecasts.

Tensions continue to rise over Taiwan and in the South China Sea, where China's maritime claims conflict with those of Manila. In a strategic move, the United States pledged $500 million to support the Philippines' military and coast guard against Chinese actions.