Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense Photo: Official WeChat account of China's Ministry of National Defense

In response to a media inquiry regarding the display of the DF-61, DF-5C, DF-31BJ land-based intercontinental missiles, the JL (JuLang) submarine-launched intercontinental missile, and the JL (JingLei) air-based long-range missile during the recent military parade, which marks the first time China has showcased its nuclear triad forces, whether China’s nuclear policy will change, Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) said on Thursday that China’s nuclear policy is of high degree of stability, continuity and predictability.

China consistently adheres to a self-defense nuclear strategy, upholding a no-first-use policy on nuclear weapons, and has committed not to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states and nuclear-weapon-free zones, said Zhang. 

He noted that China maintains its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required for national security and does not participate in any form of arms race. The purpose of China’s nuclear weapons is solely for self-defense, to safeguard national strategic security, and to maintain world peace and stability, said Zhang.

Global Times