Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of April 30, 2026. (mod.gov.cn)

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

Zhang Xiaogang: Good afternoon. Welcome to the regular press conference of the Ministry of National Defense.

I have one thing to announce at the top.

The 2026 Beijing Xiangshan Forum Navigator Meeting will be held in Beijing from May 7 to 9. Over 120 defense officials, experts, scholars, and media representatives from more than 30 countries and international organizations have been invited to attend the meeting. Under the theme of Global Security Governance: Challenges and Approaches, the meeting will focus on such topics as International Order and International Rule of Law, New Security Challenges in the Asia-Pacific, and Risk Control in the Military Application of Emerging Technologies, as well as a commemorative session for the 20th Anniversary of the Beijing Xiangshan Forum titled The Role of International Forums in Global Security Governance.

This Navigator Meeting, a key forward-looking event for the main forum, is co-hosted by the China Association for Military Science and the China Institute for International Strategic Studies. It aims to build an open, inclusive, and equal international platform for security dialogue, and make intellectual contributions to global security governance and a more just and equitable international order through multilateral discussions and in-depth exchanges.

Journalist: In the promotional video "Into the Deep" recently released by the PLA Navy, the presence of a 19-year-old recruit named He Jian has been widely interpreted by the media as a sign that the Navy will welcome its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. What is your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: China advances the development of aircraft carriers according to the needs of national security and equipment development. Regarding this video, just like the saying goes, "there are a thousand Hamlets in a thousand people's eyes". We appreciate your attention.

Journalist: Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released its 2026 Diplomatic Bluebook, which claims that China's military activities have posed the "greatest strategic challenge ever" to Japan and the international community, and alleges that Chinese military aircraft came "unusually close" to Japanese patrol aircraft and carried out "radar lock-on" against Japanese military aircraft. It also plays up the view that strengthened military coordination between China and Russia raises "grave concerns" for Japan. What is your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: To cover up its underlying ambitions, the Japanese side has repeatedly made an issue of China. The alleged "unusually close encounter"and "radar lock-on" are both false narratives orchestrated bythe Japanese side. China-Russia cooperation does not target any third party. It is conducive to maintaining regional peace and stability, and Japan is in no position to make irresponsible remarks.

In history, Japanese militarists launched wars of aggression and committed innumerable heinous war crimes. Nowadays, the emboldened right-wing forces in Japan are scheming to break free from the constraints of the pacifist Constitution and accelerate remilitarization, in an attempt to subvert the post-war international order. The Japanese leader has openly made erroneous remarks concerning Taiwan, and attempted to meddle in the Taiwan question by force under the pretext of the so-called right of collective self-defense, blatantly threatening to China.

Not long ago, a vessel of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) transited the Taiwan Strait in a deliberate attempt to provocate China. There was also a vicious incident in which an active-duty JSDF officer, carrying a knife, broke into the Chinese Embassy in Japan. Who is the real challenge and threat to peace in Asia and the world? History and reality have already provided the answer. We sternly warn the Japanese side not to barrel down the wrong path. Should it return to the evil path of militarism, it would be crushed by a head-on blow and suffer a complete failure again.

Journalist: Is it true that China provided Iran with air defense systems and drones during the military conflict in Iran? Does China plan to provide Iraq with air defense systems and drones ?

Zhang Xiaogang: We have responded to similar questions many times, and we oppose the spread of disinformation. China and Iraq enjoy friendly military relations and maintain exchanges and cooperation. The Chinese side always abides by the three principles for arms exports in its cooperation with friendly countries, and plays a constructive role in safeguarding regional and global peace and stability.

Journalist: It is reported that the Japan Self-Defense Forces participates in this year's U.S.-Philippines Exercise Balikatan, marking the first time for Japanese combat forces to set foot in the Philippines since the end of World War II. Philippine WWII victim associations and civil society groups have come out in opposition and protest. What is your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: Like many of you, I understand the feelings of the Philippine people concerning this year's Balikatan military exercise. During World War II, Japanese aggressors committed numerous crimes in the Philippines, including the Manila Massacre and the forced recruitment of "comfort women". In addition, there was the Bataan Death March, which, together with the Nanjing Massacre and the Burma-Thailand Death Railway, are known as the three major war atrocities in the Far East. In April 1942, the Japanese military captured Bataan Peninsula. Around 78,000 American and Philippine troops that had already surrendered, were systematically abused. They were forced to march 120 kilometers on foot to Camp O' Donnell, and 15,000 died miserably. To this day, the perpetrators of those atrocities have not shown genuine remorse for their crimes. How could this historical trauma be healed? Relevant countries should not forget the lessons learned from the painful history, listen to the voice of the people, stop stoking division and confrontation, and jointly thwart Japan's "neomilitarism", so as to maintain peace and tranquility in the Asia-Pacific.

Journalist: It is reported that the Permanent Mission of the PRC to the United Nations Office at Geneva held a themed activity on Advancing Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) for Global Common Security. Representatives from the MND presented the audience with detailed actions and achievements of China in HMA cooperation. Please share more information about this event.

Zhang Xiaogang: We appreciate your attention. The Chinese side shares the longing for security and development of peoples from mine-affected countries. We have held international HMA seminars on multiple occasions, and hosted nearly 30 sessions of HMA training courses. The Chinese side actively participates in mechanisms such as the ADMM-Plus HMA Expert Working Group, supports the establishment of the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center, and promotes the sharing of best practices and techniques in mine action, so as to make constructive contributions to improving regional mine-clearing capability.

Up to now, the Chinese peacekeepers have removed more than 21,000 pieces of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) from over 200,000 square meters of minefields in countries including Lebanon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Liberia, assisting local peoples in getting rid of mine hazards. Since 1998, China has provided equipment for mine detection and clearance, as well as humanitarian aid for more than 40 countries. We have also implemented the Action for a Mine-Free Africa multiple times and provided assistance to Southeast Asian countries for mine action. For instance, since 2018, we have helped Cambodia destroy 105,000 pieces of landmines and UXO and clean 188.8 square kilometers of land. China will stay committed to the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, implement the Global Security Initiative, and continue to mitigate civilian casualties caused by landmines, so as to build a mine-free world at an early date.

Journalist: It is reported that Taiwan compatriots including Lyv Lishi, a retired captain of Taiwan's naval force, attended the PLA Navy Open Day event in Qingdao. He stated that the motherland's strength underpins Taiwan's security and expressed his wish to visit PLANS Fujian. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council accused Lyv Lishi of colluding with the mainland in "united front work" and said it would assess whether his relevant acts violate laws. Do you have any comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: During this year's celebrations marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Navy, over 40 active-duty major combat vessels were opened to the public at ports in 22 cities, allowing more than 500,000 people to experience firsthand the achievements of the PLA Navy's transformation and development. In particular, Taiwan compatriots boarding the motherland's warships in Qingdao has drawn widespread attention. The flag signal conveying the message "people on both sides of the Straits belong to one and the same family; and harmony at home brings prosperity to all" struck a strong chord with those present.

The DPP authorities cannot bear to see cross-Strait compatriots drawing closer and strengthening family bonds. In their eyes, everything can be interpreted as united front work. But no matter how much they obstruct, their efforts are all in vain. We welcome Taiwan compatriots to come back often, witness the great achievements of the new era, and share the glory of national rejuvenation.

Journalist: According to reports, the U.S. military is planning to build a large-scale military fuel depot in Davao City, the Philippines, to support the long-term deployment of both naval vessels and military aircraft. What's your comment on that ?

Zhang Xiaogang: As you may have noted, the government of Davao has publicly issued a statement of opposition, which reflects the sincere aspiration of the Philippine people for peace, development and stability. It is hoped that the Philippine government will heed the voice of its people, refrain from blindly catering to external forces, and avoid undermining the interests of its own people.

Journalist: I have two questions. Firstly, according to media reports, the 14-day Han Kuang 42 war game held by the troops of Taiwan began on April 11. For the first time, this computer-simulated war game included intelligence units and scenarios such as "gray-zone harassment", a "shift from exercises to combat", and an "armed invasion" to simulate responses to various "potential tactics" used by the PLA. What is your comment on this ?

Secondly, according to reports, the Taiwan region has renovated docks on Dongsha Qundao and plans to deploy new frigates capable of carrying anti-ship missiles, as well as a so-called island defense system and other facilities, in an attempt to build the area into a forward outpost against the mainland. May I have your comment on that ?

Zhang Xiaogang: On your first question, the "Taiwan independence" armed forces stage this old play every single year, yet all the scenarios lead to a dead end no matter how they play the war game. Taiwan compatriots ought to realize that "Taiwan independence" separatists activities are extremely dangerous and harmful, and refuse to be coerced or deceived. Those who connive at and support such acts, together with their families, will only end up as cannon fodder.

On your second question, we sternly warn the DPP authorities that pursuing confrontation will not work. Should they dare to act recklessly, they will only face a thunderous crackdown.

Journalist: Recently, navigation safety notices have been issued across multiple regions of China. Live-fire drills will be conducted in parts of the waters and airspace of the Bohai Sea, the Yellow Sea and the East China Sea. In addition, China has designated reserved airspace in relevant areas from late March to early May. Some believe that these moves may signal potential major moves by China toward Japan. Do you have any comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: These are necessary measures taken by China to support military training activities, which are legitimate, lawful, open and transparent. There is no need for overreaction or excessive interpretation.

Journalist: Chinese Minister of National Defense Dong Jun recently visited Russia and Kyrgyzstan, and attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Defense Ministers' Meeting in Kyrgyzstan. Could you please provide us with more information ?

Zhang Xiaogang: We appreciate your attention. We have released information on Defense Minister Dong Jun's visit to Russia and Kyrgyzstan. In his speech at the SCO Defense Ministers' Meeting, Minister Dong Jun emphasized that the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilizations Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping have provided much-needed stability and certainty for a turbulent world. The SCO is a stellar example of practicing multilateralism. Its member states should firmly defend the international order, work together to safeguard fairness and justice, join hands to improve security governance, remove the breeding ground for turbulence and conflict through common development, and contribute the SCO's share for "sustainable peace, development and prosperity" advocated by this meeting. At the new starting point of the 25th anniversary of the founding of the SCO, the Chinese military stands ready to work with all parties to enhance the effectiveness of existing mechanisms, strengthen personnel training to solidify the foundation for cooperation, and take concrete actions to consolidate security, so as to promote high-quality development of the SCO featuring a higher level of unity, coordination, vitality and influence.

Journalist: Recently, a fishing vessel registered in China's Taiwan region caught fire in the waters off China's Diaoyu Dao. Following the incident, China Coast Guard vessels on patrol headed to the relevant sea area to put out the fire and rescue overboard Taiwan fishermen. Six people were successfully rescued. Taiwan's maritime authorities claimed that its ship Taoyuan rushed to the rescue at the earliest opportunity, and alleged that the mainland is taking advantage of this maritime incident for political manipulation and cognitive warfare. What is your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: We rescued Taiwan fishermen in need. This is our duty, and more importantly, this demonstrates the close bond between compatriots across the Taiwan Strait and the mutual assistance in times of need. Having failed to make effective rescue efforts on their own, the DPP authorities have resorted to making unfounded accusations and hyping up the incident, in a sheer attempt to cover up their cold-bloodedness and incompetence.

Journalist: It is reported that the U.S. and the Philippines have kicked off their largest-ever Balikatan exercise in the Philippines and the surrounding waters of the South China Sea, involving a total of 17,000 troops. Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro claimed that the exercise serves as collective deterrence against China. The PLA Southern Theater Command announced that its Task Group 107 recently conducted training exercises in the waters east of Luzon Island, the Philippines, and called it a necessary operation in response to the current regional situation.May I have your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: Regarding the exercises of Task Group 107, you may refer to relevant information we have already released. What the Asia-Pacific region needs most is peace and tranquility, while what it needs least is the introduction of external forces and the creation of division and confrontation. Certain individuals in the Philippine military, driven by selfish interests, willingly act as pawns of the U.S., maliciously smear and attack China and undermine China-Philippines relations. We firmly oppose such moves. No one should delude themselves into thinking they can pressure China by hiding behind the banner of external forces. We will continue to firmly uphold our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

Journalist: The Philippine National Security Council claimed that bottles and cans from Chinese vessels obtained by the Philippine side near Ren'ai Jiao in February and October 2025 contained cyanide, accusing China of deliberately using highly toxic chemicals to damage the grounded Philippine military vessel. Not long ago, the China Coast Guard spotted the Philippines' illegally grounded warship burning garbage and dumping waste into the sea. May I have your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao and an inherent territory of China. This is not the first time that the illegally grounded Philippine warship has burned garbage and dumped waste into the sea. Take a good look at the Survey Report on the Damage to Coral Reef Ecosystem by Illegally Grounded Military Vessel at Ren'ai Jiao, and you will have a much clearer understanding of who is polluting and poisoning the waters. The Philippines is like the thief crying "stop the thief", fabricating false narratives—this is nothing but a trick it frequently uses to deceive people. We urge the Philippine side to remove its illegally grounded vessel as soon as possible and restore clean waters and a sound environment at China's Ren'ai Jiao.

Journalist: According to media reports, the Japanese government has officially revised the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology and its implementation guidelines, which in principle green-lighted Japan's export of lethal weapons. In addition, it plans to resume military ranks used by the Imperial Japanese Army such as Taisa, and passed a bill to set up a National Intelligence Bureau. Do you have any comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: Recently, Japan has repeatedly made dangerous, adventurist and provocative actions in the military and security fields. Such moves have already turned against its self-proclaimed identity as a peace-loving country and the "exclusively defense-oriented" principle. Moreover, Japan is trying to resume the military rank system used by the Imperial Japanese Army, and the intelligence apparatus it plans to form is reminiscent of the notorious Tokko. These actions seriously hurt the feelings of the peoples of Asian countries. The Japanese side is making reckless and unchecked strides on the path of remilitarization. Will it again bring disasters to East Asia? All peace-loving peoples should stay on high alert, resolutely stop Japan's retrogressive moves, and never allow it to undermine peace and bring calamities to the world.

Journalist: Since the U.S. and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, some media outlets have been peddling narratives such as the "China Responsibility Theory" and "China is the winner" rhetoric. May I have your comment on this ?

Zhang Xiaogang: Such narratives disregard facts and are extremely absurd. They are nothing but political tricks to scapegoat China. This is a war that should never have happened, and one that serves no good for any party. China is neither the initiator of the crisis nor a party directly concerned. We have never fanned the flames or sought to profit from the crisis, and have remained committed to promoting a ceasefire and ending the hostilities. Guided by the four-point proposition put forward by President Xi Jinping, China will continue to work for the deescalation of the situation and play a constructive role in ultimately achieving enduring peace and stability in the Middle East.

Journalist: It is reported that the PLANS Liaoning and the PLANS Sichuan recently transited the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan's defense authorities claimed to have closely monitored relevant moves. Some media reports said that the maneuver of PLANS Liaoning was a show of force against Taiwan as well as a response to Japanese vessel crossing the Taiwan Strait. Do you have any comment ?

Zhang Xiaogang: Taiwan is China's Taiwan. The transit of PLANS Liaoning and PLANS Sichuan through the Taiwan Strait to conduct training in relevant waters is a routine arrangement aimed to enhance the capabilities in fulfilling missions and tasks.

Journalist: The new and upgraded Y-20B transport aircraft recently made debut in carrying out this year's mission to carry the remains of the Chinese People's Volunteers martyrs back to China from the Republic of Korea. Some foreign media reported that this mission publicly showcased the PLA's long-range strategic projection capabilities. What is your comment on this? What is the significance of dispatching the Y-20B to participate in this special mission ?

Zhang Xiaogang: We are bringing the bravest heroes home with the most fervent love for our country. PLA Air Force's aircraft continue to upgrade, but our mission remains unchanged. We always forge ahead to build a world-class air force capable of winning battles in the sky, and continue to strengthen our capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Tomorrow marks the start of the May Day Holiday. I wish all of you and every hard-working people a happy holiday.

This concludes today's press conference.