BEIJING -- A first-class military and powerful national defense are crucial to thwarting any attempt to split China, a mainland spokesman said on Wednesday.

At a regular press conference of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, spokesman Chen Binhua made the remarks when asked to comment on Taiwan compatriots' positive feedback in response to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy's open-day events, held last week in cities including Qingdao, to mark its 77th anniversary.

Chen said these open activities showcased the PLA Navy's latest achievements and its firm will, determination and strong capability to safeguard territorial waters and airspace, and defend national sovereignty.

He added that the heartfelt remarks made by visitors from Taiwan reflect a shared sentiment across the Taiwan Strait -- only a first-class military and powerful national defense can serve as the most reliable safeguards for all Chinese people at home and abroad, and as a sharp weapon to defeat any separatist attempt.