Chinese Military Leader Asserts Strong Stance on Territorial Claims at Naval Symposium
At the Western Pacific Naval Symposium, Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia emphasized China's readiness to defend its territorial sovereignty and core interests, warning of forceful retaliation against provocations.
- Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission, stressed the nation's commitment to defending its claims on Taiwan and other disputed territories.
- China's military expansion highlighted at the symposium, with references to its growth as the world's largest navy by hull count.
- The symposium, held in Qingdao, China, saw the absence of Philippine representatives amid ongoing maritime disputes in the region.
- Zhang advocated for resolving disputes through dialogue but warned against distorting international law.
- Recent U.S. military aid to Taiwan and joint U.S.-Philippine drills underscore the heightened tensions in the region.
Fox News 
South China Morning Post 
Associated Press 