In late 2008, CMC Chairman Hu Jintao introduced the concept of “the core values of military personnel,” extending his previous concept of the “socialist core values system” to the People’s Liberation Army. The resulting political campaign centered on the implementation of a 20-character phrase: “being loyal to the party, deeply cherishing the people, serving the country, showing devotion to missions, and upholding honor.” This article examines the origins, content, and dissemination of this political campaign, assessing its implications for party-army relations.

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