Zhang Xiaogang Photo:mod.gov.cn

When asked to comment on claims by the Commander of the US Army Pacific that the US army was building agile new units in response to potential conflicts with China, Chinese Ministry of National Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang said on Thursday that conflict and confrontation should not be the choice of either side. Mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation is the right way for China and the US to deal with each other. 

Zhang made the remarks when also asked to comment on claims by US Defense Secretary that the US side would build up its military to meet China's "threat" at every turn, and counter China in the Indo-Pacific.

The US side should stop conjuring up a powerful enemy for itself whether intentionally or unintentionally. Such imagination is not rational and extremely dangerous, Zhang said. The Chinese military will make all-out efforts to enhance our combat readiness, and firmly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

Global Times