Op-Ed: New conditions require stronger Chinese military (2)

With a strong army, China can be more politically appealing, influential and persuasive, and will make it easier to network. As we gain more trust from other countries, many of them will no longer be dependent on the US for security and on China for economic benefits.

A comprehensive and thorough military reform therefore comes into place at the right time. It is highly anticipated and encouraging. It will entail specific measures, but there are certain standards. First, our military equipment will be improved. Besides, the army will be more capable of using the equipment and soldiers’ morale will be boosted. Moreover, our military strength has to be demonstrated to the world. The army needs to be able to fight battles and provide real deterrence. The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.

As the latest military reform sets a lofty target and involves a wide range of aspects, it will meet many challenges and difficulties in the process. But the target will be reached with the consensus, direction and determination that have been made. When the reform succeeds, it will benefit not only China but the whole world. 

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