The attempt of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities in Taiwai region to seek independence by soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere, Defense Ministry spokesman Zhang Xiaogang said on Thursday.
While addressing a press conference, Zhang made the statement responding to a question after an official of Taiwan's DPP authorities called the blockage of the island by the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) an act of "war."
"Taiwan is a province of China, so there is no such thing as a 'defense minister.' Resolving the Taiwan question is a matter for the Chinese that brooks no external interference. The relevant operation and drills of the PLA are targeted against 'Taiwan independence', to uphold the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation and the safety and wellbeing of Taiwan compatriots," said the spokesman.
"Our stern message to the DPP authorities is do not insist on going down the wrong path, soliciting foreign support will lead nowhere, and returning to the right path is the only way out," said Zhang.
Taiwan authorities' attempt to seek independence by soliciting foreign support leads nowhere: spokesman
Preparations are nearly complete for the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE), set for November 5-10 in Shanghai, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.
Ministry spokesperson He Yadong said at a press conference that exhibits from over 2,700 participating companies have entered the exhibition halls, while those from more than 700 companies are still in transit and will arrive by Nov. 2.
To improve the experience for attendees, this year's CIIE has established 172 functional areas in 26 categories and added 1,523 temporary signs throughout the venue. The expo has also streamlined its registration and approval processes with a digital system.
"We are enhancing payment convenience by ensuring adequate small-denomination cash reserves, while expanding bank card transaction acceptance to include both domestic and international cards for the first time. Additionally, the expo will feature a 5,000-square-meter catering zone and offer food delivery services to all booths," said He.
The expo will also share comprehensive travel and service information via its official WeChat account, and upgrades have been made to the event's Hongqiao forum information system and the venue's navigation systems to enhance the attendee experience.
The seventh CIIE has attracted participants from 152 countries, regions and international organizations, and achieved a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders set to attend.
Since its first edition in 2018, the expo has become an important showcase, spotlighting China's new development paradigm, a platform for high-standard opening up, and an opportunity for the whole world.
Preparation work for CIIE nears completion: ministry
