China

钧声丨惩戒“台独” 利剑高悬

Xinhua | Local Language | News | April 3, 2025 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

Starting April 1, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army initiated joint military exercises involving land, sea, air, and artillery forces around Taiwan. This action is framed as a strong warning against "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and deemed a legitimate measure to protect national sovereignty and unity. The prevailing sentiment among many Taiwan compatriots is that improved cross-strait relations will benefit Taiwan. However, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is criticized for its persistent separatist agenda, neglecting the welfare and sentiments of the Taiwanese people, and escalating tensions.

Lai Qingde, identified as a "pragmatic Taiwan independence worker," faces accusations of undermining cross-strait relations through anti-China sentiments, historical distortion, and reliance on foreign support. His administration's recent proposal of "17 strategies" in response to perceived threats from the mainland has led to widespread condemnation in Taiwan, with many arguing that such actions deepen the political crisis on the island. The article asserts that the DPP's approach to "Taiwan independence" is fundamentally at odds with the interests of the people and peace in the region.

The narrative stresses that Taiwan is an integral part of China, with a call for unity among Taiwan compatriots to reject separatism. The article emphasizes a commitment to the reunification of Taiwan with the mainland as part of China's national rejuvenation, warning that any provocations by separatist forces will provoke decisive responses. Historical context is provided, noting Taiwan's past under colonial rule and China's current status as a global power, reinforcing the idea that independence is unacceptable. The People's Army is portrayed as vigilant and prepared to counteract any threats to national unity, emphasizing that those who pursue "Taiwan independence" will face severe consequences.

Global Times | English | News | April 3, 2025 | Geopolitical Conflict and Disputes

On April 1, 2025, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command conducted joint military exercises around Taiwan Island, utilizing various branches of its military including air, naval, and rocket forces. Central to the exercises was the H-6K bomber, which carried the YJ-21 air-launched ballistic missile. This deployment highlights the PLA's emphasis on combat realism, with key equipment such as the Type 054A frigate and DF-15 ballistic missile also participating.

Military experts emphasized the YJ-21 missile's advanced capabilities, noting its long range, high speed, precision, and strong defense penetration ability. Wang Mingzhi stated that the missile represents a significant advancement for the PLA Air Force and increases its striking power. The involvement of the YJ-21 in these drills signals readiness for actual combat scenarios.

Zhang Junshe further elaborated on the strategic implications of the YJ-21. He pointed out that its hypersonic speed above Mach 6 renders conventional air defense systems ineffective against it, particularly for forces advocating "Taiwan independence." The missile plays a critical role in achieving comprehensive control in modern warfare, which includes dominance not only in traditional domains but also in electromagnetic and cyber operations.

Yicai Global | English | News | April 3, 2025 | UndeterminedEconomic Growth

The Chinese finance ministry's recent decision to inject fresh capital into major state-owned banks signals strong government support for the economy, according to Ge Haijiao, chairman of Bank of China (BOC). In a recent interview, he highlighted that this initiative reflects the government's commitment to stabilizing the economy and fostering development. The four banks involved—including BOC, Bank of Communications, China Construction Bank, and Postal Savings Bank of China—plan a combined recapitalization of CNY520 billion (USD71.7 billion) through private placements, with the finance ministry set to acquire CNY500 billion of the shares. Notably, BOC aims to raise CNY165 billion, the largest share among the lenders.

Ge emphasized that increasing the core Tier 1 capital of these banks is a key government strategy to stimulate growth, boost domestic demand, and mitigate financial risks. He described the capital boost as a proactive and strategic measure aimed at strengthening the financial sector. This infusion of capital is expected to enhance social financing, invigorating major sectors such as consumption, domestic demand, and development of new productive forces. He also noted that the capital adequacy ratios of major state-owned banks are fundamentally linked to their ability to support the real economy and maintain financial stability.

Following this capital injection, BOC plans to enhance its support for the real economy and facilitate industrial upgrades, aiming to unlock new business opportunities and drive profit growth. Ge stated that the current global economic environment is complex and volatile, characterized by trade frictions and geopolitical conflicts, making adequate core Tier 1 capital essential for banks. According to Dong Ximiao, the capital injection will raise each of the four banks' capital adequacy ratios by about 0.5 percentage points. Ming Ming, chief economist at Citic Securities, characterized the move as a proactive measure meant to anticipate future challenges rather than simply responding to existing risks. Currently, the core Tier 1 capital adequacy ratios for the four banks exceed the minimum regulatory requirements.