It is either fine wine or shotguns, China’s ultimatum to the United States reads. Li Shangfu Responds to U.S. Provocations: “Mind Your Own Business”
The recent Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) witnessed a renewed focus on the China-U.S. disputes concerning the South China Sea and Taiwan. During the event, Western observers emphasized a near collision between Chinese and U.S. warships in the Taiwan Straits and sought comments from Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Li Shangfu. Li’s response was direct and unequivocal, urging others to refrain from interfering in Chinese territorial waters and airspace under the guise of “freedom of navigation.”
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Lloyd Austin, US Secretary of Defence, Made an Aggressive Speech.
During the first full session of the dialogue, U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin gave an impassioned speech about Taiwan and the South China Sea. With his extensive military background, including service in Iraq and a lengthy Army career, Austin emphasized the importance of supporting allies and partners in countering coercion and bullying in the Western Pacific. The U.S. Navy’s Seventh Fleet also announced a “routine” transit of the Taiwan Straits, shortly after Austin’s speech, highlighting the ongoing tensions.
China Responds to U.S. Provocations with Naval and Aerial Monitoring
In response to the U.S. actions, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command mobilized naval and aerial forces to track and monitor the U.S. and Canadian vessels throughout their transit. Senior Colonel Shi Yi, a spokesperson at the Chinese PLA Eastern Theater Command, denounced these deliberate provocations as a threat to regional peace and stability, cautioning against interference in China’s internal affairs and the pursuit of Taiwan’s independence.
Freedom of Navigation Dispute in the South China Sea
Austin’s speech also rekindled the contentious issue of “freedom of navigation” in the South China Sea. Li, in response, highlighted the thousands of ships that safely pass through the region annually, without facing security threats. He argued that some countries outside the region exploit the notion of “freedom of navigation” to engage in navigation hegemony and stir up troubles for their gain. Li firmly denied any obstruction of innocent passage and labeled external forces’ presence as provocative.
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Global Security Initiative Welcomed, Calls for Pragmatic Engagement
Notably, China’s proposed Global Security Initiative received a warm reception at the SLD, with participants showing strong interest. Li’s speech garnered applause and drew attention from attendees. Southeast Asian countries, such as Indonesia and the Philippines, expressed concerns about the risks of wars and conflicts. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that a U.S.-China conflict is not predetermined, while Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta urged a broader understanding of China, emphasizing that China poses no harm to others.
The Choice Between Reciprocity and Confrontation
Li concluded his remarks at the dialogue by quoting a popular Chinese song, stating,
“When friends visit us, we welcome them with fine wine. When jackals or wolves come, we will face them with shotguns.”
He emphasized the need for reciprocity and careful consideration when faced with a choice between cooperation and confrontation, urging all parties to engage in dialogue based on mutual respect.
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Amid escalating tensions between China and the U.S., the outcomes of the Shangri-La Dialogue underline the importance of finding common ground and maintaining peaceful relations in the Asia-Pacific region. The need for measured dialogue and pragmatic engagement becomes increasingly vital in navigating this complex geopolitical landscape.
Who is Defense Minister Li Shangfu?
A Chinese Leader from Humble Beginnings
Li Shangfu has become a prominent figure in Chinese politics and military affairs through dedication and service. Li, born in February 1958 in Xingguo, Jiangxi Province, is a determined patriot.
Li began his career in May 1974, seizing opportunities to help society. In August 1982, his dedication led him to join the esteemed People’s Liberation Army (PLA), where he would leave an indelible mark on China’s defense forces.
Li joined the Communist Party of China (CPC) in June 1980, aligning his goals with the nation’s. Chongqing University’s Department of Control Theory and Control Engineering awarded him a Doctor of Engineering for his academic excellence.
Li Shangfu dominates Chinese politics today. He is on the 20th CPC Central Committee, CPC Central Military Commission, and PRC Central Military Commission. He is also a State Councillor and Leading Party Members’ Group member.
Li’s PLA Army generalship reflects his unwavering dedication to national defense. Li Shangfu’s expertise and dedication shape China’s military strategies and protect the nation’s sovereignty.
Li Shangfu’s leadership, integrity, and unwavering dedication to China’s people inspire as the country navigates a changing world. From humble beginnings to influential positions, he embodies China’s progress and commitment to a prosperous future.
