Beijing, Saturday — In a strong call for regional harmony, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun urged for enhanced defense and security cooperation to foster peace and stability in Asia and beyond. Speaking at separate meetings with Fijian Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua and Tanzanian Minister of Defense and National Service Stergomena Lawrence Tax, Dong emphasized the importance of collaboration in the current global landscape.
The meetings took place during the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, a significant platform for dialogue on security and defense that opened on Friday in Beijing. The forum gathers defense officials, military leaders, and experts from various countries to discuss pressing issues affecting regional and global security.
“China-Fiji relations have withstood the test of time and continue to move forward,” Dong declared, highlighting the exemplary cooperation between China and South Pacific Island countries. He noted that the partnership serves as a prime example of how nations can work together for mutual benefit, setting a positive precedent for others in the region.
Addressing the relationship with Tanzania, Dong remarked that China and Tanzania have been “working hand in hand to create a model for China-Africa security cooperation.” He emphasized the need to adhere to the important consensus reached by their leaders and to continuously improve the quality and effectiveness of defense and security cooperation.
Fijian Minister Tikoduadua expressed gratitude for China\u2019s assistance in Fiji\u2019s economic development, improvement of livelihoods, and military construction. “Fiji speaks highly of China\u2019s vital role in global and regional affairs,” he said, affirming Fiji\u2019s commitment to the one-China principle and a desire to enhance exchanges and cooperation with China.
Tanzanian Minister Tax echoed similar sentiments, stating that Tanzania is willing to work with China to enhance practical cooperation in areas such as joint exercises and training. She emphasized the aim to deepen the traditional friendship based on mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit to better serve the peoples of both countries.
The discussions underscore China\u2019s efforts to strengthen ties with countries in the South Pacific and Africa, focusing on defense and security as key areas of collaboration. These moves align with China\u2019s broader strategy to promote regional peace and stability through partnership and mutual support.
The Beijing Xiangshan Forum continues to serve as a critical venue for fostering dialogue and understanding among nations, contributing to the collective goal of a peaceful and stable international community.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
