China firmly pursues peaceful development: defense minister

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-08-01 11:52

A reception is held to mark the PLA's 82nd founding anniversary in Beijing, capital of China, July 31, 2009. [Xinhua]

BEIJING: China will unremittingly pursue the path of peaceful development and its military will enhance cooperation with foreign armed forces in order to contribute to common development, said Defense Minister Liang Guanglie Friday.

"China will develop friendly cooperation with all the countries in line with the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence to make new contributions to building a harmonious world of lasting peace and common prosperity," said Liang at a reception at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the 82nd anniversary of the establishment of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

"Peace and development remain themes of the times, yet the world is not peaceful," said Liang, who is also a member of the Central Military Commission (CMC) of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and a state councilor.

China's military would enhance exchanges and deepen cooperation with foreign armed forces to fulfil its international obligations and responsibilities, said Liang.

Liang said "positive changes" in the situation across the Taiwan Straits had helped curb "Taiwan independence" forces, and the two sides have expanded and deepened exchanges and cooperation in fields of economy and culture, among others.

"We will firmly hold the theme of the cross-Straits peaceful development, adhere to the one-China policy, oppose the secessionist activities of 'Taiwan independence' forces and firmly safeguard China's sovereignty and territorial integrity to continue to make due efforts for peaceful development of cross-Straits relationship," said Liang.

In August 1927, the CPC armed forces led an uprising against warlords, which is regarded as the founding day of the services.

"The PLA, focusing on modernization, will keep improving its capacity to deal with crises and safeguard peace, and deterring and winning a war," said Liang.

"The PLA will also prevent antagonistic forces from carrying out separatist and sabotage activities and safeguard national security and social stability," Liang said.

The reception was attended by CMC members Chen Bingde, Li Jinai, Liao Xilong, Chang Wanquan, Jing Zhiyuan, Wu Shengli and Xu Qiliang, army officers in active duty and representatives of retired army officers, as well as foreign military attaches.

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