Study in National Defense University, China

Today marks Start of Summer, the seventh of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. It signals the departure of spring and the onset of early summer. As the temperature rises, living things enter a period of vigorous growth.

As the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) poet Yang Wanli wrote:

"The little lotus bloom has just shown its tip slight. When all at once you see a dragonfly alight."

May we, like this nascent lotus, take deep root and, in due time, bear fruit of our own.

International Workers' Day is a glorious celebration for working people across the globe. In China, hundreds of millions of people have created miracles of development through their hard work, while the People's Liberation Army steadfastly safeguards peace and stability with unwavering loyalty.

From master artisans to soldiers, and from farmers toiling in the fields to troops standing guard at border outposts, every contribution deserves our respect, and every drop of sweat carries honor.

Our highest tribute goes to all the laborers and workers who have contributed to the country's development and national defense.

The 13th chapter of 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘞𝘢𝘳, "Use of Spies", examines the critical importance of espionage in warfare, the categories of spies, and the methods of their employment.

In this chapter, Sun Zi wrote, "This 'foreknowledge' cannot be elicited from spirits, nor from gods, nor by analogy with past events, nor by any deductive calculations. It must be obtained from the men who know the enemy situation."

This inspires us to value spies and intelligence. Military actions must not be taken blindly and must be based on reliable and timely information obtained from those with direct knowledge of the enemy.

The Fourth International Security Cooperation Seminar for Foreign Military Attachés to China featured truly inspiring insights from guests.

Peace and development were most frequently mentioned throughout the discussions, reflecting a collective aspiration for a world of lasting peace and universal security. Swipe through to relive the highlights.

The Chinese Ministry of National Defense hosted the Fourth International Security Cooperation Seminar for Foreign Military Attachés to China at ICDS, NDU, earlier this month.

Foreign military attachés to China and representatives from some international organizations' resident offices in China attended the event. After listening to the briefing on the 2026 two sessions, participants held in-depth exchanges and discussions on strengthening international cooperation to address regional security challenges. Following the meeting, they visited a Chinese civilian internet company.

The 12th chapter of 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘞𝘢𝘳, "Attack by Fire", outlines the types of fire attacks, the necessary conditions and methods of implementation, as well as the responses after a conflagration has started.

It advocates for post-war consolidation to secure the fruits of victory, and puts forward the principle of being cautious about going to war: "A sovereign should not launch a war simply out of anger, nor should a general fight a battle simply out of resentment."

It emphasizes that military action must align with the interests of the State. Otherwise, taking up arms recklessly can lead to irreversible loss.

Today marks Grain Rain, the sixth of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. Around this time, peonies reach their peak splendor.

The Tang Dynasty (618–907) poet Liu Yuxi praised them:

"Only the peony truly displays the colors of the nation. When it blooms, it captivates the entire capital."

Since ancient times, peonies have symbolized the grandeur of the Chinese nation and embodied their enduring aspirations for a prosperous life. In this late-spring season, why not enjoy a visual feast of peonies and savor the beauty of the moment?