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China's new conscription plans could 'boost troops' in wartime, analyst says

China’s Ministry of Veterans Affairs posted to social media over the weekend a draft of conscription plans that would affect the country’s veterans. File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI
China’s Ministry of Veterans Affairs posted to social media over the weekend a draft of conscription plans that would affect the country’s veterans. File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI | License Photo

July 7 (UPI) -- China disclosed for the first time conscription plans for war that experts say will better prepare the country for armed conflict.

A proposal from China's Ministry of Veterans Affairs includes plans to enlist military veterans. Bringing officers out of retirement and onto the front lines was referred to as a "top priority," the South China Morning Post reported Wednesday.

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The regulations would delegate to China's State Council, or the Central Military Commission, the responsibility of drafting soldiers to agencies at "various levels."

Veterans could rejoin their unit or be assigned to a new position, the report said.

The draft regulations, made available on the ministry's WeChat account also stated, "During wartime, the transport department and workers shall give priority to enlisted soldiers; other organizations and personnel should also help them."

China is using its social media account to gather public feedback on the draft regulations. The country has not revised conscription plans since 2001. The regulations were initially introduced in 1985, the report said.

Song Zhongping, a military analyst, told the Post that the changes make China more ready to deal with "emergencies."

"The new section about enlisting soldiers during wartime can make the process more comprehensive," Song said.

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"It fits to the actual needs of China, because enlisting veterans in the military can quickly boost troops' ability if China fights a war."

The assessment comes after China marked the centenary of the Chinese Communist Party. State-owned publications have released details of a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan. Chinese leader Xi Jinping has said he stands by an "unshakable commitment" to unify China on the centenary.

China flew 28 warplanes into Taiwan-controlled airspace on June 15, the largest display of force in two years, according to Taiwan's defense ministry last month.

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