File photo:China Military

The Chinese military on Friday unveiled the heroic deeds of five PLA officers and soldiers who bravely fought in the Galwan Valley border clash between China and India last year. Four of them sacrificed their lives in the bloody conflict and the details have been made public. The disclosures made at this moment have the following significance. 

First, China honored and saluted all heroes including Qi Fabao, a regimental commander of the Chinese military, and four martyrs. Back to the Galwan Valley clash last year, given the tense situation at that time, avoiding a comparison of casualties was more conducive to the stability of the border situation. Now that the round of border standoff has ended, we must make public the heroes' deeds so that all the Chinese people could admire and commemorate them to understand the weight of peace. Before the Galwan Valley clash, China had not seen soldiers sacrifice in clashes with foreign troops for quite a long time. The sacrifice of young soldiers including those born after 1995 and 2000 has shocked the nation.  

Second, the Chinese and Indian troops have begun border disengagement, but India hasn't really given up. Forces including the US are still dreaming of infringing on China's interests. India has been trumpeting its "victory" in the border provocations against China to cater to and encourage surging domestic nationalism. The unveiled number of casualties from China has debunked the lies of India, making it hard for India, who suffered heavy losses in the Galwan Valley, to continue to fool the domestic public. 

Third, awarding and commemorating the heroes is another manifestation of the PLA's firm determination and sufficient capability to defend the country's territorial sovereignty and annihilate all invaders. The PLA not only abides by rules, but also is devoted to its duties. It will win in any war. No one is allowed to infringe on China's territorial sovereignty and national interests. It's only wishful thinking if one wants to crash or restrain the PLA. India suffered a big defeat in 1962. New Delhi thinks it has become stronger, but was again taught a painful lesson by the PLA due to its recklessness. We hope India could remember the pain it suffered this time for a few more years. 

Fourth, China fought India at the border in our national interest, on just grounds and with restraint. The PLA can win battles in emergencies, so can it restrain when necessary. We have not only struck back at India's provocations, but also created conditions for not expanding border frictions into all-round conflicts, leaving enough room for the two countries to actively manage border disputes. Peace is always the aspiration of the Chinese military and the Chinese people. China is restrained with the wording about India this time, which is in line with our long-term philosophy.

Fifth, China-India border issues are quite complicated, entangled with many other things, including major power competition. China's move to unveil details at this time has demonstrated the country's strategic wisdom and sense of rhythm in handling complex affairs. It includes not only China's prestige as a major power, but also China's goodwill as India's neighbor. China's rise has affected the world, causing various intertwined responses. China is neither selfish, nor reckless. We are rational in our advancement and retreat, thus progressing steadily, with stamina.  

In short, China has good friends and collaborators. It handles disputes with others in a reasonable and patient manner. China's hands are for shaking with others and hugging. But please also remember, our friendly hands can become powerful fists in the event of being invaded. China has 1.4 billion industrious and brave people as well as soldiers who are courageous to sacrifice for the safety of the motherland. Friendly cooperation and building peace together will always be the best choice for China and other countries.