Chinese military ready to shatter any separatist activity: Defense chief

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) – China’s Defense Minister Dong Jun said the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is ready to shatter any separatist activity and effectively safeguard the country's national interests, state-run media reported on Thursday.

Speaking at a grand event to celebrate the 97th founding anniversary of the PLA in Beijing, Dong said the PLA is advancing at a new historical juncture on the journey to strengthen the military.

"All its officers and soldiers pledge absolute loyalty, focus on combat readiness, and remain committed to realizing the centenary goal of the PLA in 2027," Xinhua News quoted Dong as saying.

He added that the PLA is willing to work with foreign counterparts to enhance cooperation to build a world of lasting peace and universal security.

The PLA was established on Aug. 1, 1927, and it has since grown to be one of the world's largest military forces.

Meanwhile, PLA Eastern Theater Command condemned what it called the “provocative” sail of the Canadian Navy's frigate through the Taiwan Strait, saying the PLA has organized sea and air forces to monitor and guard the entire process.

"They handled it in accordance with the law and regulations," Global Times quoted the spokesperson for the command as saying while slamming the actions of the Canadian side for disrupting and interfering, undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid