March 12, 2023
1 min read

US-sanctioned general named Chinese defence minister

Experts said the appointment would be closely watched by Washington given Li’s background, even though the post is viewed as largely diplomatic and ceremonial…reports Asian Lite News

China on Sunday appointed a US-sanctioned general as its new defence minister, the media reported.

The country’s rubber-stamp legislature unanimously confirmed the appointment of General Li Shangfu, a veteran of the People’s Liberation Army’s modernisation drive, CNN reported.

Experts said the appointment would be closely watched by Washington given Li’s background, even though the post is viewed as largely diplomatic and ceremonial, CNN reported.

In 2018, the administration of former US President Donald Trump sanctioned Li and China’s Equipment Development Department – which he was in charge of at the time – for purchasing Russian weapons, including a Su-35 combat aircraft and a S-400 surface-to-air missile system, CNN reported.

His appointment was one of a series confirmed by China’s National People’s Congress during its Sunday sitting. Other senior appointments included four new vice premiers – Ding Xuexiang, He Lifeng, Zhang Guoqing, and Liu Guozhong.

Following their nomination by the new premier, all four will serve as vice premiers on the State Council, the body responsible for reviving China’s economy after three years of strict zero-Covid restrictions.

The appointment of Li Shangfu as defence minister comes at a time of increasingly strained relations between Beijing and Washington.

Defense experts said Li’s history as a technocrat and aerospace engineer who worked in China’s satellite programme would play a key part in his new role, CNN reported.

ALSO READ: Xi rejigs cabinet

Previous Story

Lulu Creates ‘The Biggest Human Saudi National Flag’

Next Story

Balochistan govt bats for peace talks with insurgents

Latest from -Top News

Rajasthan Returns to Dubai

This year, the Rajasthan Tourism Board set up their stand at ATM Dubai stage 2025—its first appearance in 15+ years. Under the stewardship of Additional Director Mr. Anand Tripathi, Department of Tourism,

Beijing’s Shadow Over Kashmir Terror

The Pahalgam massacre is not just an act of terror; it is a strategic message. It exposes how Pakistan, increasingly beholden to China, is being used as a tool to undermine India’s

India Calls Out Pakistan’s Double Game

Indian High Commissioner to the UK warned that the current hostilities could cease entirely if Pakistan simply refrains from targeting Indian military installations…reports Asian Lite News Indian High Commissioner to the UK,

Gates to Give 99% Away 

Spread out over time, this will enable the foundation to invest an additional $200 billion (£150.8 billion) in its core focus areas, primarily global health and U.S. education, over the next two
Go toTop

Don't Miss

‘India ready to combat China’s cyber attacks’

According to the official data, India witnessed a nearly 300

US asks India to ensure fair legal process for Kejriwal

Kejriwal, the national convenor of the AAP, was arrested on