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

‘Bangladesh Business Summit 2023’ kicks off in Dhaka

Latest from -Top News

BRICS Slams US Tariff Hikes

The leaders criticised developed nations for using environmental issues to justify trade restrictions on developing countries….reports Asian Lite News Rio de Janeiro, July 7 (IANS) Embroiled in a trade war launched by

US Tariffs Pushed to August Amid Talks

In April, Trump announced a base tariff of 10 per cent on most of America’s trading partners and thereafter additional duties ranging up to 50 per cent….reports Asian Lite News US President

Indonesia Joins BRICS Bloc

This year’s BRICS Summit saw an expanded format, reflecting the grouping’s growing relevance in international affairs….reports Asian Lite News Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally welcomed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto into the BRICS

Kenyans put president on notice

Kenya’s fifth president became a remarkably unpopular leader barely two years into his presidency after proposing aggressive tax measures that many saw as a betrayal of his campaign promise to support working-class
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Biden warns Iran of ‘other options’ if nuclear diplomacy fails

Biden reaffirmed his commitment to preventing Tehran from developing nuclear

Wang Yi Calls for Comprehensive Dialogue with the US

Blinken also expressed his condolences on the passing of former