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TV footage of President Xi giving his speech at the Great Hall of the People to mark the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. Photo: SCMP Pictures

China does not want to dominate Asia, says Xi, but president warns it won’t succumb to military threats

Speech in Beijing comes ahead of international tribunal ruling on nation’s claims in South China Sea and carries veiled attacks on US policy in the region

Xi Jinping

China will not seek hegemony in Asia, but nor will it succumb to threats of military force, President Xi Jinping said at a gathering at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People to mark the Communist Party’s 95th anniversary.

In a rare move, Xi dedicated a substantial part of his keynote speech to foreign policy ahead of a ruling by an international tribunal on China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea.

Xi also repeatedly called for confidence in Communist Party rule in leading the nation.

“China does not covet any interests of other nations, but we’ll never waive our legitimate rights,” he said. “Other nations should not expect us to haggle about our core interests or take the consequences of undermining our interests concerning sovereignty, security and development.”

His tough remarks came after the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague said this week it would announce its ruling on China’s maritime claims on July 12.
A military band plays at the ceremony at the Great Hall of the People. Photo: Reuters

The case was brought by the Philippines, which has rival territorial claims in the South China Sea.

In a veiled message apparently targeting the United States, Xi lambasted Washington for flexing its military muscle near the disputed waters amid heightened tensions in the region.

“China will continue the military approach of active national defence. We will not seek frequent threats of using military force or show off military strength at other’s doorsteps,” he said.

“Such muscle flexing does not reflect real strength and will not be able to deter anyone,” Xi said, in an apparent reference to frequent patrols by American warships in the region.

Xi also made comments which appeared to be aimed at China’s neighbours, many of whom are wary of its expansive claims in the South China Sea.

“China believes that confrontation should be replaced by cooperation and the monopoly [of international power] should be replaced by a win-win concept,” he said.

“It is up to all members of the international community to decide what kind of international order and governance system is best for the world,” he added.

Analysts believe Xi’s strongly worded remarks are aimed at sending a warning message to both American presidential candidates, who have pledged tougher polices towards China.

Xi also referred to the problem of graft in his speech.

“As the ruling party, the biggest danger we face is corruption,” Xi warned in the lead-up to a major leadership reshuffle next year.

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