Defense Ministry Spokesman Zhang Xiaogang condemned the content of the Japanese document related to tensions in the Taiwan Strait and the China-Russia joint maritime patrol.

“The defense white paper is filled with cliches, misleading the international community and providing pretexts for its military buildup,” he said referring to the text.

The spokesman noted that it is legitimate and justified for China to conduct maritime and air drills by international law and domestic laws.

He reiterated that separatist activities in Taiwan and the connivance and support from external forces are the biggest threats to peace in the Taiwan Strait at present.

Zhang stressed that the China-Russia defense cooperation is based on non-confrontation and non-targeting of any third parties. He believes it is conducive to maintaining international and regional peace and stability.

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