Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Thursday called upon China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries to broaden their common maritime interests with a long-term perspective. Speaking at the 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting Plus, Dong emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in maritime security.
“We should work together to carry out maritime security cooperation in a flexible and diverse manner,” Dong said. “Enhancing our ability to jointly safeguard maritime security will contribute significantly to regional and global peace and stability.”
Highlighting the general stability of the Asia-Pacific region, Dong cautioned against the risks of being drawn into geopolitical conflicts. He urged all parties to make joint efforts to “protect our beautiful homeland.”
Dong reaffirmed China’s willingness to work with all parties to firmly consolidate ASEAN centrality and support the improvement and upgrading of the existing cooperation framework. He called for unity among regional countries and the resolution of issues through dialogue.
“We oppose provoking disputes, resorting to force, forming cliques, or bringing in external forces,” Dong stated. “It is essential that we deepen defense and security cooperation, promote the implementation of the Global Security Initiative in the region, and build a closer security community.”
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Dong Jun urges China, ASEAN to expand common maritime interests
cgtn.com
