Washington: For the first time, NATO has called China a challenge to Western countries' "interests, security and values" because of its "coercive policies".
Spain's summit approves NATO's new Strategic Concept (PDF), which sets its priorities for the next decade
The document used harsh language against Russia, calling Moscow "the most important and direct threat" to Western peace and security, but said Beijing's military intentions were based on its confrontation with Taiwan. Rhetoric and its growing close ties to Moscow have created "organized challenges."
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters: "China is strengthening its military strength, including using nuclear weapons to intimidate its neighbors, threatening Taiwan, and using modern technology to infiltrate its own citizens." Is monitoring and controlling and Russia is spreading lies and misinformation.
"China is not against us, but we must keep a clear eye on these serious challenges," he said. In response, China said it strongly opposed the NATO declaration, calling it a "completely neutral" warning.