29-12-2023 (BEIJING) In a move reflecting President Xi Jinping’s commitment to enhancing China’s military prowess, Chinese lawmakers have appointed Dong Jun as the new defence minister, succeeding Li Shangfu, who mysteriously disappeared four months ago. The appointment aligns with Xi’s broader strategy to position China as a dominant global power, raising concerns among neighbouring nations.
Dong Jun, 62, formerly the chief of the People’s Liberation Army Navy, assumes the role of the public face of the People’s Liberation Army in its interactions with the media and other military counterparts. It’s crucial to note that, unlike in other countries, the Chinese defence minister has limited influence over defence policy and military management, responsibilities falling under the jurisdiction of the Central Military Commission led by President Xi.
Li Shangfu, Dong’s predecessor, took on the defence minister role in March but had not been seen in public since August 25. Reports from Reuters suggested that Li was under investigation for corruption related to equipment procurement and development. Despite Beijing not providing an official explanation for Li’s disappearance, he was stripped of his titles as defence minister and state councillor in October.
One of the pivotal responsibilities of the Chinese defence minister is engaging with the United States military to mitigate the risk of conflict over flashpoints like Taiwan and the South China Sea. These areas have witnessed escalating tensions in recent years. During Li Shangfu’s tenure, he did not meet with his US counterpart, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, citing Washington’s precondition to lift sanctions imposed on Li in 2018 for his role in procuring Russian aircraft and equipment.
Dong Jun, stepping into this role, does not face such constraints, as he is not known to be under US sanctions. This appointment comes at a time when President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping recently agreed to resume senior military talks that were suspended after then-House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to self-ruled Taiwan in August 2022.
