China's defense minister stresses regional unity at ASEAN defense meeting

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Thursday called for regional unity and cooperation while opposing bloc politics and external interference during the 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Vientiane, Laos.

In his speech at the gathering, Dong emphasized the importance of maintaining ASEAN's centrality in regional affairs, strengthening existing frameworks for cooperation, and rejecting exclusive alliances or "small groups".

He stressed the importance of firmly maintaining unity among countries in the region and opposing the introduction of bloc politics and camp confrontations into the region.

Dong also advocated for resolving disputes through dialogue rather than force or external intervention. He urged greater defense and security cooperation and called for the implementation of the Global Security Initiative, a framework proposed by China to address global and regional security challenges.

The Chinese defense chief highlighted the need for long-term collaboration between China and ASEAN, particularly in maritime security. He proposed expanding shared maritime interests, conducting flexible security exercises, and enhancing joint capabilities to safeguard peace and stability.

"The strategic choices we make today will determine the future security and prosperity of the region and its people," Dong said.

Ahead of the meeting, Dong held bilateral talks with defense leaders from New Zealand, India, and Malaysia, as well as with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, according to China's Ministry of National Defense.