- China plunges $230bn into its military budget to ‘boost combat preparedness’
- It reverses a two-decade trend where China has prioritized growth over defense
- Concerns are mounting that China is set to launch an invasion of Taiwan
China announced it will boost its military budget by nearly $230 billion this year amid concerns it will launch an invasion of Taiwan.
The money is set to ‘boost combat preparedness and enhance military capabilities,’ claimed Premier Li Keqiang ahead of a draft budget presented to the National People’s Congress in Beijing.
It means China’s military spending will grow at its fastest pace in four years and take up a larger share of its economy, marking the reversal of a two-decade trend which has seen the nation prioritize growth over its military capabilities.
Defense expenditure will increase by 7.2 percent in 2023 which works out as $224 billion – way ahead of the 5.7 percent increase in general public expenditure.
The move will no doubt spook the US government which is concerned by Beijing’s strategic intentions in the wake of rising tensions with Taiwan.
In his work report to the annual session of parliament, Li said: ‘Our armed forces, with a focus on the goals for the centenary of the People’s Liberation Army in 2027, should work to carry out military operations, boost combat preparedness and enhance military capabilities.’
Beijing is nervous about challenges on fronts including Taiwan – the self-governing island democracy that China claims as its territory to be brought under its control by force if necessary.
US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi spiked China’s rage last August with a visit to Taipei.
In retaliation, China staged war games near Taiwan.
There has since been a steady flow of weapons sales to the island from the U.S., including ground systems, air defense missiles and F-16 fighters.
Taiwan itself recently extended mandatory military service from four months to one year and has been revitalizing its own defense industries, including building submarines for the first time.
In his remarks on Taiwan, Li said the government had followed the party´s ‘overall policy for the new era on resolving the Taiwan question and resolutely fought against separatism and countered interference.’
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By: Miss Cherry May Timbol – Independent Reporter
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