Chinese leader Xi Jinping has urged top national security officials to prepare for worst-case scenarios and be prepared for challenges ahead. During a meeting of the party’s National Security Commission, Xi emphasized the increased complexity of national security issues and the need for bottom-line thinking. He called for readiness to face major tests and stormy seas, as China faces internal and external threats.Chines
Xi’s instructions come at a time when Beijing is grappling with various challenges, including economic struggles and a perceived hostile international environment. To address the complex situation, Xi stressed the need to expedite the modernization of China’s national security system, focusing on enhancing effectiveness in practical combat. He also highlighted the importance of establishing a national security risk monitoring and early warning system, improving national security education, and enhancing data and artificial intelligence security management.
Since assuming power, Xi has placed significant emphasis on national security, extending its scope to various aspects of governance. His concept of “comprehensive national security” encompasses politics, economy, defense, culture, ecology, cyberspace, and emerging technologies. China has enacted several laws, including those related to counter-terrorism, counter-espionage, cybersecurity, foreign non-government organizations, national intelligence, and data security, to safeguard against perceived threats.
Observers note that Xi’s focus on security appears to outweigh economic considerations, with intensified coordination between security and development. This shift is evident in the introduction of a national security law in Hong Kong and recent raids on foreign companies. These actions, along with detentions of foreign nationals, have raised concerns among international businesses, while China seeks foreign investment to revive its slowing economy.
During the meeting, Xi emphasized the importance of creating a secure external environment to protect the country’s openness and promote the integration of development and security.
