On the morning of January 8, 2026, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered recent media queries concerning the military. (mod.gov.cn)

(The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)

Journalist: According to reports, President Xi Jinping's 2026 New Year message received warm responses from the PLA and the PAP. What's your comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: At the turn of the year, President Xi Jinping delivered his 2026 New Year message. The speech celebrates a proud historical journey and fuels drive toward the realization of our lofty dreams. We are inspired to focus on our goals and tasks, press ahead with enterprise and fortitude, continuously break new ground in Chinese modernization and write a new chapter in the story of China's miracle.

The military will thoroughly study and internalize the guiding principles in President Xi Jinping's important remarks. In accordance with the new three-step strategy for modernizing national defense and the armed forces, we will continue to enhance political loyalty in the military, strengthen the military through reform, scientific and technological advances, and personnel training, and run the military in accordance with the law. We will simultaneously carry out operations, boost combat preparedness, and enhance military capabilities; and accelerate integrated military development through mechanization, informatization, and the application of intelligent technologies. All this will enhance our military's strategic capacity to defend our national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

All service members will charge ahead like horses with courage, vitality, and energy. Putting priority on high-quality development, we will speed up the development of advanced combat capabilities, modernize military governance, and consolidate and improve integrated national strategies and strategic capabilities. We will go all out to win the decisive battle for achieving the military's centenary goal, and accelerate efforts to build a world class military to provide strong strategic support for advancing the great cause of building a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

(By Du Juan, Zhou Xuan, Wen Sai)Journalist: According to Japanese media reports, as of the end of 2025, China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels had been spotted in waters adjacent to Diaoyu Dao for 356 days, surpassing the 2024 record of 355 days. What's your comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory. It is legitimate and justified for the CCG to patrol and conduct law enforcement operations in relevant waters to protect coastal waters and defend maritime territory, leaving no room for parties with sinister intentions to infringe upon China's territorial rights and interests. There is no need to make a fuss over it. We urge the Japanese side to be cautious with its words and deeds, and refrain from any actions that might escalate the situation. Otherwise, it will be hoisted by its own petard.

Journalist: According to media reports, Japanese government officials said that considering nuclear armament is not irresponsible, and the government is keeping all options open regarding the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines. Besides, in a significant budget boost for Official Security Assistance program, Japan's foreign ministry plans to supply Southeast Asian countries with defense equipment and materials, such as advanced radar systems. What's your comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: Criticism over Japan's negative moves in military and security areas among the international community, including the Southeast Asian countries, has been vocal and consistent. Instead of repenting for its historical crimes and exercising caution on military buildup, Japan has fabricated various excuses to accelerate its military expansion, brazenly exported destructive weapons, and even clamored for nuclear armament in defiance of global opposition. Such actions further expose the sinister intent of Japan's right-wing forces to push for remilitarization and the resurrection of militarism. All peace-loving countries and peoples need to see through the Japanese government's ulterior motives, work together to prevent the revival of Japanese militarism, uphold the post-war international order, and defend peace and stability in the region and the world.

Journalist: As was reported, the PLA Navy recently rescued a Philippine fisherman in the South China Sea. However, Philippine Navy spokesperson claimed that for the Chinese side to publicize the matter would "lose the essence of such assistance and would only speak of propaganda." What's your comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: During a routine patrol in waters under China's jurisdiction, crew members of a PLA Navy vessel rescued a distressed Philippine fisherman. Many Filipinos expressed gratitude and commended this humanitarian act by the Chinese side. In stark contrast, certain individuals in the Philippines have sought to exploit their own fishermen as pawns for maritime infringements, provocations, and sensational propaganda, putting them in an awkward position and without any regard for their livelihoods and safety. These hypocritical and cold-blooded individuals also made unfounded accusations against China. Facts speak louder than words, and justice prevails in people's heart. China remains unwavering in its resolve to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and is committed to working with regional countries to foster a sea of peace, friendship, and cooperation in the South China Sea.