China’s Defense Minister, Adm. Dong Jun, issued a stern warning at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, stating that anyone attempting to separate Taiwan from China will face “self-destruction.” He called on forces advocating for Taiwan independence to abandon this pursuit and return to the path of reunification. Dong reiterated China’s position that Taiwan is an integral part of China and emphasized Beijing’s commitment to peaceful reunification despite Taiwan being a democratically self-governed island. The admiral blamed separatist forces for undermining the “One China” principle and accused the ruling Democratic Progressive Party of pushing for independence by increasing military capability and erasing Chinese identity.
Dong also criticized unnamed “outside forces” for supporting Taiwan separatists and challenging China’s red lines on official engagement and arms sales to Taiwan. He accused these forces of attempting to contain China by leveraging the Taiwan issue. The U.S., while not having a mutual defense treaty with Taiwan, has obligations under the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act to provide defense articles and services necessary for Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities. Dong highlighted the significance of Taiwan as a core interest for China, warning that efforts to challenge the People’s Liberation Army would be futile and counterproductive for the interests of people in Taiwan.
In addition to addressing Taiwan-related concerns, Dong responded to questions regarding tensions in the South China Sea, particularly reference to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s comment about the killing of a Filipino citizen in the region potentially constituting an act of war. Dong accused the Philippines of illegally grounding a landing ship on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 and criticized their unilateral reneging of agreements related to the resupply missions to the garrison stationed on the shoal. He emphasized China’s commitment to peacefully resolving disputes in the region while warning against deliberate provocation.
Despite questions on other global issues such as conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, Dong largely focused on Taiwan and the South China Sea in his responses. He reiterated China’s stance on peaceful reunification with Taiwan and asserted Beijing’s sovereignty over the island. The admiral’s remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue underscored China’s firm position on territorial integrity and opposition to any attempts to challenge its sovereignty, particularly in relation to Taiwan. Dong’s warnings and criticisms aimed at separatist forces and external influences reflected China’s determination to defend its interests and maintain stability in the region.
