China has always advocated for peace on the international stage and has consistently shown an attitude of not proactively provoking war, leading the international community to generally view China as a "dove" nation.
"Dove" refers to a tendency to adopt a moderate and friendly attitude towards other countries.
However, alongside the "doves," China also has some well-known "hawks" known for their hardline stances, who firmly defend national sovereignty and take direct and decisive actions.
Some well-known instances include "strong responses to Japan" and "rebuking the U.S. and demanding Clinton write an apology letter."
So, who exactly are these "hawks," and what have they done?
Sha Zukang: The Best Approach is to Remain Silent
Sha Zukang was born into a poor family and, through hard work and solid capabilities, successfully entered the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, later rising to the position of Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.
He has always believed that his duty at the United Nations is to spread Chinese culture and thinking.
When many doubted Sha Zukang's appointment as Deputy Secretary-General, he carved his own path in diplomacy with his "bull-headedness."
In an interview with the British media, he bluntly stated, "It's best to shut up," which instantly silenced those present.
In response to multiple U.S. interventions and inappropriate remarks, Sha Zukang was equally unyielding, directly demanding that they "shut up" and emphasizing that China's internal affairs are not to be interfered with by outsiders.
His tough stance successfully maintained China's sovereignty, earning him the title of "hawk" from the outside world.
He once candidly told the U.S. to "look in the mirror," asserting that he is neither a "hawk" nor a "dove," but a "China hawk."
Throughout his 36-year diplomatic career, Sha Zukang has participated in and managed numerous significant diplomatic events, using his tough attitude to uphold China's voice on the international stage.
Ai Yejin: The Determination to Eliminate Japan
Ai Yejin is the founder of the military studies discipline at Nankai University, attracting a large number of students with his unique teaching style.
With his extensive knowledge and unique insights, he gradually gained attention and was hailed as "the one who holds the keys to all military secrets."
As his fame grew, Ai Yejin was seen as a representative of the "China hawks" due to his straightforward and hardline remarks.
He famously stated, "Truth is always within the range of cannons," emphasizing the need for strong power in international competition.
Not only is he a professor, but he is also a thinker who spreads "hawkish" ideas, openly stating that with China's rise, Japan must first be eliminated, even if it means bearing criticism for the benefit of future generations.
Ai Yejin tragically passed away from stomach cancer at the age of 59.
Wang Hongguang: The Strategy to Take Taiwan in Three Days
In addition to Sha Zukang and Ai Yejin, General Wang Hongguang is also a representative of China's "hawks."
He similarly defends national sovereignty with a tough attitude, firmly believing that cross-strait reunification is the common wish of the people.
However, due to the inaction and arrogant attitude of the Taiwanese authorities, the process of peaceful reunification has been continuously delayed.
General Wang Hongguang advocates using "six strategies" to swiftly occupy Taiwan, claiming that the goal can be achieved within three days.
He believes Taiwan is part of China and that whether through peace or force, the ultimate goal must be cross-strait reunification.
General Wang Hongguang's hardline stance has made the outside world aware that China has the capability to reclaim Taiwan but is unwilling to do so at the expense of cross-strait harmony.
Li Zhaoxing: Forcing Clinton to Apologize
Li Zhaoxing is a well-known Chinese diplomat whose style also falls under the "hawk" category.
During the 1999 bombing of the Chinese embassy in Yugoslavia by the U.S., he actively defended China's sovereignty and dignity.
At that time, to quell public opinion, Clinton personally met with Li Zhaoxing and expressed a desire to apologize.
Li Zhaoxing directly demanded that Clinton write a personal apology letter. Although reluctant, Clinton was ultimately compelled to write "a reflection" in the condolence book to express regret for the victims.
Li Zhaoxing's tough stance upheld national dignity and rights, making the outside world realize China's firm position in defending its sovereignty.
China is not solely a "dove" nation; there are also many "hawkish" figures in international affairs who defend China's sovereignty and interests with a strong attitude, conveying the message that China should not be underestimated.
Although these "hawkish" representatives handle issues in varying ways, their common goal is to maintain national security and dignity, refusing to allow any external forces to interfere in China's internal affairs.
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