China’s new leadership is likely to be tougher on Taiwan. That was the word from Minister of Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng (邱國正) on Monday in regards to China’s new Politburo Standing Committee.
Chiu said with Zhang Youxia (張又俠) and He Weidong (何衛東) now as Vice Chairmen of the Military Commission, Beijing’s stance towards Taiwan will probably be harsher. Chiu also noted that the average age of Politburo Standing Committee members is younger than before and many have tech and aerospace backgrounds. He thinks that means there will be more technological warfare coming from China.
Minister Chiu also said that however the Chinese leadership changes, Taiwan’s military forces will be preparing to defend the country.
On Sunday, Xi Jinping (習近平) revealed the six men who are the new Politburo Standing Committee: Li Qiang (李強), Zhao Leji (趙樂際), Wang Huning (王滬寧), Cai Qi (蔡奇), Ding Xuexiang (丁薛祥) and Li Xi (李希). They are all in their 60’s and known as loyal supporters of Xi.