China Names Dong Jun as New Defense Minister
China has appointed Dong Jun as its new Defense Minister following the dismissal of his predecessor, Li Shangfu.
The former navy commander, Dong, was confirmed for the role by the National People's Congress's Standing Committee in Beijing.
His selection comes amid a series of high-level military firings earlier this year, including that of Foreign Minister Qin Gang. The reasons for these dismissals remain undisclosed. Recently, nine other senior military figures and three missile defense executives were also let go.
Analysts speculate these removals may suggest a broader purge among military leadership. Dong, 62, assumed the role of navy commander in 2021 and has managed the strategic Southern Theatre Command.
His appointment occurs amidst a slight thaw in US-China relations, with military representatives from both nations resuming talks for the first time in over a year.
Tensions had escalated following a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. However, a meeting between President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden in November signaled a renewed diplomatic engagement.
His selection comes amid a series of high-level military firings earlier this year, including that of Foreign Minister Qin Gang. The reasons for these dismissals remain undisclosed. Recently, nine other senior military figures and three missile defense executives were also let go.
Analysts speculate these removals may suggest a broader purge among military leadership. Dong, 62, assumed the role of navy commander in 2021 and has managed the strategic Southern Theatre Command.
His appointment occurs amidst a slight thaw in US-China relations, with military representatives from both nations resuming talks for the first time in over a year.
Tensions had escalated following a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. However, a meeting between President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden in November signaled a renewed diplomatic engagement.
