By Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) at the Office for International Military Cooperation of the Central Military Commission (CMC).
Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of the People's Republic of China (PRC), answers questions at a regular press conference on the afternoon of August 28, 2025. (mod.gov.cn)
(The following English text is for reference. In case of any divergence of interpretation, the Chinese text shall prevail.)
Zhang Xiaogang: Friends from the media, good afternoon. Welcome to this month’s regular press conference of the Ministry of National Defense (MND). I have three pieces of news to announce at the top.
Firstly, China and Nepal will hold Sagarmatha Friendship-2025 joint army training in Nepal in early to mid-September. Themed on joint counter-terrorism operations, this training will be organized in the form of mixed teams with participating troops teaching and learning from each other. The joint training will feature comprehensive drills on joint counter-terrorism operations and subjects such as disaster relief and rescue and peacekeeping operations. The event, the fifth between the Chinese and Nepali militaries, is aimed to further enhance interoperability in joint counter-terrorism operations and deepen traditional friendship and cooperation between the two militaries.
Secondly, at the invitation of the Ministry of National Defence of Vietnam, the Guard of Honor of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) will send a contingent to Vietnam from late August to early September to participate in commemorative activities marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day of Vietnam. This mission aims to further expand military and cultural exchanges between China and Vietnam and deepen traditional friendship between the two countries and the two militaries.
Thirdly, the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum will be held at the Beijing International Convention Center from September 17 to 19. The theme of this year's forum is Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development. There will be four plenary sessions, eight simultaneous sessions, and a variety of side events, including high-end dialogues, Leading Experts' Dialogue, Young Military Officers and Scholars' Seminar, as well as briefings on Review and Prospect: China's Armed Forces in UN Peacekeeping Operations, and on China's Navy in International Humanitarian Medical Missions. The Beijing Xiangshan Forum will provide an equal, inclusive and diverse platform for participants to have constructive dialogues and build consensus and trust. It will make an intellectual contribution to addressing challenges concerning global security and development.
Now, please watch a video of the Beijing Xiangshan Forum.
We welcome and look forward to your coverage of this event.
Question: An investigation by Yuyuan Tantian revealed that since China held its first V-Day military parade in 2015, Japan has spent more than 56 billion yen on its so-called "correct image" propaganda. Against this backdrop, the Japanese side recently used diplomatic channels to call on European and Asian countries to carefully consider their participation in the commemorative events to be held on September 3 in Beijing. What's your comment?
Zhang Xiaogang: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made response and lodged serious representations with the Japanese side in request for its clarification. It must be emphasized that covering up historical facts and shirking responsibility cannot whitewash one's image—it will only spark strong vigilance and condemnation from peace-loving peoples around the world, including the Chinese people. Japan should honestly face up to and reflect on its history of aggression, make a clean break with militarism, and sincerely respect the sentiments of the people in victim nations, including China. Only by doing so can Japan earn trust from its Asian neighbors and the rest of the international community.
Question: Currently, national enlistment is underway. Many college students actively signed up for military service. Could you introduce policies related to enlisting college students?
Zhang Xiaogang: Eight years ago, President Xi wrote a reply letter to encourage the newly enlisted students from Nankai University. Over the years, a large number of outstanding students have answered the call to join the military and serve the country, contributing their youth and passion to defense and military modernization. College students are now the majority of new recruits.
There are some preferential policies for enlisted college students. Firstly, their families are respected and honored. Local government will provide annual subsidies to their families, and county-level department of veterans affairs will present a Family of Honor plaque to them. Secondly, they have better opportunities for personal and professional development. Upon joining in the military, college freshmen and undergraduates can apply to military academies; eligible graduates with full-time bachelor's degrees or higher degrees can be promoted to be officers; outstanding college students enlisted in units at or below division level can be recommended for admission to military academies without examination; and all enlisted college students have the opportunity to be selected as non-commissioned officers (NCOs) who can be promoted based on their service time and performance. These policies encourage soldiers to serve on a long-term basis. Thirdly, they enjoy preferential treatment for resuming studies or seeking jobs. For the enlisted college freshmen, their admission qualifications and student status can be retained, which allows them to enroll or resume their studies within two years after demobilization. They are also eligible for tuition assistance, national student loans repayment, and tuition reduction or exemption. After demobilization, they can get bonus points or receive preferential treatment in examinations such as education upgrade programs from junior college to university, postgraduate entrance examination, civil servant recruitment, and recruitment of civilian personnel in the military.
Question: The US Department of Defense commented that the YJ-family anti-ship missile systems displayed by the Chinese side during military parade rehearsals would pose a significant challenge to the US Aegis system and the defense systems of its aircraft carriers. The US Naval News reported that China's large unmanned underwater vehicle reflected the PLA's pursuit of strategic advantages in underwater unmanned domain. May I have your comment on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: The press conference held by the State Council Information Office introduced the weapons and equipment to be on display in the military parade. I have no information to add. I want to emphasize that China's development and upgrading of weapons and equipment is for the purpose of safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests. China is always a steadfast force for world peace. An increase in China's strength is an increase in the hope of world peace.
Question: Recently, new evidences about crimes committed by the Japanese militarists during their aggression of China have been made public. These include thousands of pages of documents and footage related to the gem warfare conducted by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army, a photo collection documenting atrocities during the Japanese invasion of Guangdong province, as well as diaries and albums of Japanese invaders discovered in Hebei province. These materials truthfully reveal atrocities committed by Japan during its invasion of China. May I have your take on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: The inhumane acts of aggression and heinous crimes of massacre committed by Japanese militarists inflicted unimaginable suffering upon the Chinese people and peoples of many Asian countries. In particular, Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army, in flagrant violation of international law, waged an outrageous gem war against the Chinese people, perpetrating egregious crimes against humanity. This historical truth is irrefutably documented and can never be denied nor erased. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The devil has been eliminated, but its poisonous remnants have not yet been completely eradicated. We urge the Japanese side to deeply reflect on its historical crimes, accelerate the disposal of abandoned chemical weapons, and restore clean soil to the Chinese people at an early date.
Question: PLAN hospital ship Ark Peace made its maiden overseas voyage in August 2010, and provided medical service to the countries it visited. We just celebrated the 15th anniversary of Mission Harmony conducted by PLANS Ark Peace this August. Could you brief us on the hospital ship's achievements in recent years?
Zhang Xiaogang: With the spirit of benevolence, PLAN hospital ship Peace Ark has completed 10 iterations of Mission Harmony since 2010. It has sailed over 320,000 nautical miles and visited 52 countries, spanning three oceans and six continents. The ship has provided medical service to more than 370,000 people. With great love and compassion, it has sown the "seed of hope" and forged deep bonds with the peoples of the countries it visited. Going forward, the PLA Navy will continue to carry out Mission Harmony, provide high-quality public security goods with more "arks of life", and write a heart-warming chapter on implementing the Global Security Initiative and building a maritime community of a shared future.
Question: It is reported that the Taiwan authorities recently approved the 2026 budget, with defense spending amounting to 949.5 billion New Taiwan dollars, accounting for about 3.32% of its GDP. This is the first time since 2009 that its defense spending has exceeded 3% of GDP. It is in response to U.S. pressure to ramp up military investment. Not long ago, Lai Ching-te announced a target of increasing the defense budget to 5% of GDP by 2030, which has sparked public concerns in Taiwan, as defense spending would only reach 5% of GDP in wartime. What is your comment?
Zhang Xiaogang: Peace, development, exchange and cooperation are common aspirations of the general public in Taiwan. The Lai Ching-te authorities keep going further down the evil path of seeking independence by force and continue to serve as a cash machine and make unconditional concessions to the U.S. at the cost of Taiwan's resources. Such moves will ultimately lead to self-destruction. The PLA will continuously enhance combat readiness and our ability to fight and win, and firmly safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Question: The majority of the equipment to be displayed in the coming military parade will be new fourth-generation equipment. As they become the main body of in-service equipment, does the fact show the speed and accomplishments of China's equipment development？
Zhang Xiaogang: The weapons and equipment to be displayed in the military parade are highly informationized and intelligent, fully demonstrating the Chinese military's ability to adapt to technological advances and evolving forms of warfare, and to win future battles.
Question: It is reported that during next month's large-scale live-fire training to be held by the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the US Marine Corps, the Typhon mid-range missile system will be used at the U.S. Iwakuni military base. This is the first time that this system has been deployed in Japan. Japan's Kyodo News reported that this move is intended to counterbalance China. Do you have any comment?
Zhang Xiaogang: In recent years, the Japanese side has repeatedly broken constraints of its pacifist Constitution and its commitment to the "exclusively defense-oriented" policy. It is going further down the dangerous path of military expansion, which has raised international concerns over its return to the evil path of militarism. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. At such a critical historical juncture, the Japanese side should learn profoundly from history and exercise utmost caution in its words and deeds in military and security areas.
Question: It is reported that the Philippines and Australia recently conducted a joint exercise in the Philippines. Countries including the U.S., Canada and Japan sent personnel to participate in or observe the event. The Philippine military claimed that this was a warning against Beijing's assertive actions. Besides, the 2nd Philippines-Australia Defense Ministers' Meeting was recently held. The two countries announced their willingness to strengthen defense cooperation and expressed grave concerns over China's actions in the South China Sea. What is your take on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: The South China Sea should be a sea of peace, cooperation and friendship. The Philippine side, however, has repeatedly courted influence from outside powers to make waves in this area, playing the role of an ass in the lion's skin. Its acts have jeopardized regional security and stability. Reality has proven time and again that the Philippine side is the one who undermines stability and makes troubles in the South China Sea. At the same time, some external countries have instigated and supported the Philippines to take irresponsible actions that harm the shared interests of regional countries. China's actions to safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests are justified and legitimate. We will take firm countermeasures against any provocative behaviors.
Question: According to media reports, an article posted in the U.S. magazine The Diplomat claimed that this year's Han Kuang 41 Exercise is nothing more than a show, and that the society and people of Taiwan are unprepared for war, both psychologically and institutionally. What is your comment on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: We have expressed our views on the so-called Han Kuang exercise. The public have sharp eyes and they have long seen through the self-deceiving tricks of the DPP authorities. It is also clear to all that seeking independence and resisting reunification by force is doomed to fail.
Question: It is reported that the 24th meeting between the Special Representatives of China and India on the boundary question was recently held in India, where the two sides reached a 10-point consensus and agreed to continue to use diplomatic and military channels as border management and control mechanisms. What is your comment on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: During the 24th Special Representatives' Meeting on the China-India Boundary Question, the Chinese side and the Indian side, in a positive and constructive spirit, had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on the boundary question and reached multiple consensus. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and India. In accordance with the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries that China and India are partners and opportunities to each other, the two sides have consolidated the sound momentum of improving relations, maintained peace and tranquility in the border areas, and jointly explored a correct way for neighboring major countries to respect each other, coexist peacefully, seek development together, and achieve win-win cooperation.
Question: The upcoming military parade on September 3 in Beijing has attracted wide attention. What is the mainland's view on the contributions of the Kuomintang-led National Revolutionary Army in the war? In addition, a previous press conference of the State Council Information Office released that Kuomintang veterans who fought in the war would be invited to observe the parade. Could you please introduce relevant arrangements? Will veterans from Taiwan participate?
Zhang Xiaogang: The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was a just war in which all Chinese people united as one to fight against the aggression of Japanese militarists. Over 80 years ago, the Communist Party of China led fights in enemy rear, while the Kuomintang led fights on the front. The two parties cooperated with each other to jointly resist Japanese aggression. Inviting KMT veterans to participate in the commemorative activities shows our tribute to their contributions in fighting against aggression and safeguarding the country. For further details, please refer to the press conference held by the State Council Information Office.
Question: I have two questions. Firstly, according to Japanese media reports, Japan has deployed the Sea Guardian large unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to conduct surveillance and imaging activities against China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels over the waters surrounding Diaoyu Dao. This type of UAV has carried out multiple missions since April this year. Does the Chinese side know about the information collection activities of the UAV? Do you have any comment on Japan's move?
Secondly, before visiting Japan and Indonesia, German Foreign Minister stated that China's actions in the Taiwan Strait, the East China Sea and the South China Sea would affect Europe. Some comments say the statement was made just as German Chancellor and other European leaders were going to join the Ukrainian president to meet the US president in Washington. This seems to be an attempt to "show goodwill" to relevant countries by criticizing China. What's your comment on this?
Zhang Xiaogang: On your first question, Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory. We urge the Japanese side to immediately cease all activities complicating maritime and airspace situations near Diaoyu Dao. China will continue to take effective measures to firmly safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
On your second question, the overall situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea remains stable. The Taiwan question is an internal affair of China, which brooks no external interference. To uphold peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, we must abide by the one-China principle and firmly oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist acts. We urge relevant parties to cease their erroneous words and deeds that fuel conflicts and heighten tensions.
Question: It is reported that the illegally grounded Philippine warship BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) released two boats to approach, in an unprofessional and dangerous way, China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels undertaking law enforcement operations. Furthermore, a large number of Chinese vessels gathered in this area. Some CCG boats seemed to be equipped with machine guns. The chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said that preparations had been made to supply the troops on the grounded warship. Do you have any comment?
Zhang Xiaogang: The CCG has responded to this. What I want to emphasize here is that Ren'ai Jiao is part of China's Nansha Qundao and is China's inherent territory. The activities of Chinese vessels within waters under China's jurisdiction are legitimate, legal and beyond reproach. We sternly warn the Philippine side that it must refrain from repeating such mistakes and immediately cease its infringements, provocations and propaganda. Otherwise, it will be held fully responsible for all the consequences arising therefrom.
Question: It is reported that from September 19 to 23, the PLA Air Force will hold aviation open day activities in Changchun. Could you provide more information?
Zhang Xiaogang: The PLA Air Force aviation open day event is themed as Soar with Dreams, Win the Future. There are three features to highlight. Firstly, more than a hundred types of active aircraft, ground equipment and decommissioned classic equipment of the PLA Air Force will be exhibited. It will feature the first-ever static display of the J-20 fighter jet and the first-ever flypast by a bomber formation. The Bayi, Red Eagle and Sky Wing aerobatic teams will present spectacular performances. Secondly, the event will enhance interactive experience by setting up immersive zones for flight simulation, UAV operation, and parachuting, alongside open-day activities at military camps, allowing the public to gain a more firsthand and in-depth understanding of the PLA Air Force. Thirdly, there will be a themed exhibition about the PLA Air Force, as well as display areas for pilot recruitment, air traffic control, and ground academy admissions. Visitors can participate in aviation culture salon and a series of activities such as an annual drone meeting and a tour performed by the military band of the PLA Air Force. Outstanding Air Force pilots will also interact with the public. All these efforts aim to create a strong atmosphere of "Love Our Air Force, Spread Wings in Changchun".
Zhang Xiaogang: If there are no more questions, this concludes today's press conference.