During the Moscow Conference on International Security, a key figure emerged with a pronounced message: General Li Shangfu, China’s defence minister. He emphasized the vision China has for its military’s future collaborations and the crucial role it sees itself playing on the global stage. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of his vision and the implications for international dynamics:
1. An Expanded Role in International Military Cooperation
At the conference, General Li stressed China’s intent to expand its military partnership and collaborations, focusing on hi-tech weapons, equipment, logistics support, and international counterterrorism. This commitment is a significant development, considering the rapidly changing landscape of global military technology and geopolitics. China’s proactive stance indicates its keenness to be at the forefront of global defense and security dialogues.
2. Focus on Combined Military Exercises
One of the key takeaways from General Li’s speech was China’s desire to increase the number of joint military exercises and training it holds with other nations. These joint drills aren’t just symbolic; they are integral to China’s military diplomacy. They represent a mutual trust among nations and allow forces to understand and adapt to each other’s military strategies and techniques.
3. China’s Image-building Strategy
China is strategically building its image, portraying the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) as a peacekeeper and a trustworthy ally. The focus is particularly on the Global South. Yet, China’s military operations’ occasional opaqueness and close encounters with other military forces have sometimes led to skepticism and mistrust. Thus, these collaborations and exercises are as much about image management as they are about military strategy.
4. Collaboration Beyond Traditional Allies
General Li mentioned new and potential partnerships, notably pointing to China’s intent to work alongside Iran and Belarus. Both countries are either members or soon-to-be members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a Eurasian economic and security group steered majorly by China and Russia.
5. Global Security Initiative: China’s Vision for Conflict Resolution
One of the key points in Li’s address was the promotion of the Global Security Initiative, which offers a different approach to world conflict resolution than some Western principles. This initiative, envisioned by President Xi Jinping, posits dialogue and negotiations over conflict and sanctions. The rationale is straightforward: in an interconnected world, combat and sanctions rarely provide lasting solutions.
Illustrating this, General Li highlighted China’s role in brokering the normalization of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran. This success is a testament to China’s dialogue-first approach and a signal to the world of the effectiveness of its diplomatic tactics.
6. Critical Views on Western Policies
Li’s speech also contained implicit criticism, especially targeting the U.S. He called out the international community’s resistance against imposing one’s will on others and interfering in nations’ internal affairs. He inferred that such actions hinder nations’ right to development and autonomy and often lead to chaos and disaster.
7. Russia-China Dynamics
Outside the official speeches, interactions between the two nations were telling. Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu’s conversation with General Li emphasized the deep ties between Russia and China. Labeling them as “strategic partners, good neighbours, and loyal friends,” Shoigu highlighted the regular exchanges between the two nations and their joint military exercises.
Shoigu expressed admiration for China’s advancement in arms technology, showcased at the Army 2023 defense expo in Moscow. He acknowledged China’s considerable progress in military tech since the last exhibition.
8. Expanding Diplomatic Relations
On the sidelines, General Li had a busy schedule, meeting defense leaders from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam. While exact details were not publicized, China’s state news agency, Xinhua, confirmed these interactions. These meetings indicate China’s multi-pronged approach to strengthening ties not just with traditional allies but also with other significant players in international geopolitics.
9. A Gathering of Nations in Moscow
The Moscow Conference on International Security saw invitations extended to 92 nations, including India, Saudi Arabia, Belarus, and Vietnam, signifying the importance Russia places on collaborative security dialogues. General Li’s visit wasn’t limited to the conference; he is scheduled to engage with leaders in Belarus and then return to China.
Conclusion:
General Li Shangfu’s message at the Moscow Conference sets the tone for China’s international military and diplomatic strategy moving forward. With a clear focus on collaborative exercises, technological partnerships, and a preference for dialogue over conflict, China is positioning itself as both a global military power and a promoter of peace. How other nations react and adapt to China’s overtures will be crucial in shaping the geopolitical landscape in the years to come.
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