The recently concluded 10th Beijing Xiangshan Forum underscored the critical importance of global security in these challenging times. With the world grappling with multiple conflicts—from the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian crisis to the prolonged Russia-Ukraine conflict—leaders and experts from over 90 countries, regions, and organizations gathered to seek pathways toward lasting peace.
This year’s forum, themed \”Common Security, Lasting Peace\”, resonated with China’s Global Security Initiative (GSI), a framework aimed at addressing the complex risks and challenges faced by the international community. The GSI emphasizes the need for cooperative and innovative approaches to global security issues.
In his keynote speech, General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, highlighted the necessity of win-win cooperation to overcome global challenges. \”We must be highly vigilant about acts of intensifying conflicts, fueling confrontation, and making strategic misjudgments,\” he cautioned, urging nations to move beyond outdated ideologies that divide the world.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu also addressed the forum, expressing concern over escalating tensions. He warned that the Western approach of continuous escalation with Russia carries the risk of a direct military clash between nuclear powers, which could have catastrophic consequences.
The United States was among the nations represented at the forum, with Xanthi Carras, Country Director for China in the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, attending the discussions. The forum coincided with a recent meeting in Washington between U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During their meeting, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of resumed dialogue, stating, \”China and the United States need to have dialogue. Not only should we resume dialogue, the dialogue should be in-depth and comprehensive.\” Blinken concurred, reinforcing the need for open communication.
The Xiangshan Forum served as a vital platform for international dialogue, emphasizing the shared responsibility of nations to work collaboratively towards global security and peace. As conflicts persist and new challenges emerge, such gatherings highlight the importance of engagement and mutual understanding in navigating a complex international landscape.
Reference(s):
Xiangshan Forum succeeds in advancing security in dangerous times
cgtn.com
