Xi Orders China’s Military to Strengthen Combat Readiness

Chinese soldiers from the People's Liberation Army wear protective masks as they march after a ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of China's entry into the Korean War, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, on Oct. 23, 2020. Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

Chinese leader Xi Jinping is telling China’s armed forces to focus on strengthening its combat readiness over the next five years because of domestic and international uncertainties.

In a March 9 address to delegates during Beijing’s annual legislative sessions, Xi, who heads the Central Military Commission, said that ensuring its armed forces are prepared for war should be the nation’s leading military objective.