China's President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of strengthening border, sea, and air defenses to safeguard the nation's territorial sovereignty and maritime interests, according to the official Xinhua news agency. Speaking on Tuesday during a collective study session of the Communist Party's politburo, Xi highlighted that robust defense systems are crucial symbols of China's sovereignty and essential for its development. These study sessions, which occur every one to two months, provide insights into the priorities and strategies of China's top political leadership.

Following a July 2023 session focused on enhancing military governance, Xi appointed a new leader for the armed force responsible for China's conventional and nuclear missiles. This appointment, made just before the 96th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on August 1, underscores Xi's ongoing military reforms. The June 2024 session addressed party governance and corruption, leading to the dismissal of former defense minister Li Shangfu and ex-PLA Rocket Force commander Li Yuchao for corruption in mid-July.

At the recent study session, Xi stressed the need to align border, sea, and air defense initiatives with the economic and social development of border and coastal regions. He called for technological advancements and the development of "new means and conditions" to bolster these defenses, ahead of the PLA's 97th anniversary.

China has increased its 2024 defense budget by 7.2%, matching last year's rate and surpassing the projected economic growth rate. This boost comes amid heightened tensions over Taiwan, which China claims as its territory, and conflicts in the South China Sea, where disputes with the Philippines have intensified. In response to China's actions in the South China Sea, the United States has pledged $500 million in funding for the Philippines' military and coast guard, signaling support for Manila.