"Using Force to Achieve Peace" and Its Implications

On the first day of the Chinese New Year, the PLA Eastern Theater Command unveiled a video and a series of posters. Titled "Using force to achieve peace," these materials aimed to demonstrate the troops' unwavering resolve. The Command emphasized its commitment to protecting family gatherings, upholding its mission to ensure the people's well-being, and defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Military experts noted that this display highlighted the PLA's readiness to fight and its responsibility to advocate for peace.

The posters featured a dark green background with red paper-cutting patterns, blending the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival with a military theme. They underscored the PLA's dedication, even during the holiday, to safeguarding peace and stability. Close-up images of soldiers from various branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Rocket Force, and Strategic Support Force, were particularly striking. The release of the materials coincided with the timing of a previous joint exercise.

only those prepared for war can deter it. The posters' title and imagery focused on showcasing the "fighting" capability, while the final image highlighted the goal of "stopping war" and introducing the concept of "transforming conflict into resolution."

The posters continued the Eastern Theater Command's practice of using both traditional Chinese characters and English, with clear meanings and aspirations. For example, the poster titled "Empower with joint capacities" contained hidden implications. The English translation, "joint capacities," emphasizes the gathering of tangible power through intangible technological strength based on network, information, and digital empowerment.

News outlets also reported on the Eastern Theater Command's video and posters. The reports highlighted the armed situation of the soldiers and the training conditions of ships and aircraft, including a map of the Taiwan island. The release of these materials has become a tradition for the PLA Eastern Theater Command during the New Year.

Military experts noted a stronger stance in this year's theme and content. The PLA's posture of readiness has been established through exercises. With increasing provocations, the PLA's warnings and responses are becoming more severe.