China to Boost Military Ties with Neighbours, Promotes Global Security Leadership

China's defence minister, Dong Jun, addressed an annual military forum in Beijing, advocating for stronger military relations with neighbouring and developing countries. Emphasizing global security and regional unity, Dong criticized Western interference and called for equal participation in international affairs. The forum included representatives from 90 countries.

China's Defence Minister Dong Jun announced on Friday that China plans to strengthen military alliances with its neighbouring countries, emphasizing that major nations should lead in ensuring global security. Speaking at China's annual military diplomacy forum in Beijing, Dong made an appeal to the Global South while indirectly criticizing Western interventions.

Dong stressed the importance of major countries in setting examples by abandoning a zero-sum mindset and avoiding the oppression of smaller and weaker states. He highlighted the need for all countries, regardless of their size and development status, to have an equal voice and rights in international matters.

Despite ongoing tensions with the U.S. over issues like the South China Sea and Taiwan, Dong's speech to representatives from 90 countries at the three-day forum reiterated China's intention to deepen military relations with regional and developing nations. He called for regional unity and self-reliance in resolving conflicts. The U.S. was represented by Michael Chase, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia.

(With inputs from agencies.)