BEIJING – China has increased defense spending in the national budget presented to announce the formal start of President Xi Jinping’s third consecutive term. Premier Li Keqiang ordered the army to be ready for battle in the border areas.
Although it is the practice of the Chinese Communist Party to step down following 10 years, the Chinese Party Congress, which elected Xi Jinping as the supreme leader of the party, approved the third term of the party constitution last October.
China has increased its defense budget for the eighth year in a row. The increase in this budget is 7.2%. At the same time, the country’s expected growth rate this year is 5%.
It is estimated that the increase in defense spending is due to the impending military operations, even as the domestic recession persists and the growth rate is expected to decrease. Li Keqiang stated in the annual work report of the parliament that coordination needs to be tightened by increasing military capabilities and combat readiness.
When President Li Keqiang (67) steps down following completing his 10-year term, Lee Chiang is likely to become the prime minister.
English Summary: China tells military to be ready for combat
