Nanjing, a city steeped in history, became a hub for modern security collaboration this week as the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) convened the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts' Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations. Representatives from ADMM-Plus member states, observer nations, the United Nations, and the ASEAN Secretariat gathered at the PLA Army Command College to explore technology-driven solutions for global stability.
The five-day forum focused on integrating artificial intelligence, drone surveillance, and data analytics into peacekeeping missions. A senior PLA officer emphasized China's commitment to 'practical cooperation through multilateral platforms,' highlighting recent advancements in disaster response robotics showcased during the event.
UN delegates presented case studies demonstrating how blockchain technology improved supply chain transparency in African peacekeeping operations. Meanwhile, Southeast Asian participants discussed regional challenges like maritime rescue coordination and cyber conflict prevention.
This meeting marks China's third consecutive year hosting the ADMM-Plus peacekeeping working group, reflecting its growing role in shaping Asia's security architecture. Analysts note the timing coincides with increased investments in China's defense-tech sector, which reported 12% year-on-year growth in R&D spending last quarter.
