Number of noncombatants in Chinese military almost halved

Taiwan separatists a grave threat, says defense white paper

Taiwan separatists and their activities are the "gravest immediate threat" to peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits and the "biggest barrier" to the peaceful reunification of the country, according to the defense white paper.

The Taiwan authorities, led by the Democratic Progressive Party, have "stubbornly"pursued independence and refused to recognize the 1992 Consensus that embodies the one-China principle.

"We make no promise to renounce the use of force, and reserve the option of taking all necessary measures," it said. "This is by no means targeted at our compatriots in Taiwan, but at external interference forces and the very small number of Taiwan separatists and their activities."