Chinese Defense Minister Calls for Dialogue and Peace Amid Rising US-China Tensions
The Minister of National Defense of the People’s Republic of China, Dun Jun, delivered a prominent speech that subtly criticized the United States while reaffirming Beijing’s pursuit of reshaping global governance.
Increasing global tensions are driven by territorial disputes, military demonstrations, and economic rivalry reminiscent of Cold War rivalries.
During the security forum in Xianshan, he urged nations to avoid division and destabilization, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and cooperation.
Dun pointed out that the world stands at a crossroads and called for a return to constructive partnerships, shunning confrontation.
He warned that external military interference, influence-seeking, and pressure to choose sides only deepen chaos and threaten the international order.
Despite its expanding military capabilities, China’s army aims for peace and readiness to defend global strategic interests, participate in joint operations, and enhance international collaboration.
His speech included specific recommendations: deepen military trust, strengthen multilateral cooperation, foster a cooperative spirit, and improve mechanisms for international security.
Concluding his nearly 30-minute address, Dun asserted that China’s military seeks to be a force for peace and collaborates globally to contribute to a shared future for humanity and global stability.
This speech followed recent remarks by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who condemned “hegemony and coercive policies,” amid large military parades showcasing new weaponry.
Tensions over Taiwan remain high: China insists on reunification and is prepared to use force, while Taiwan’s leaders maintain that only its residents can decide its future.
Meanwhile, diplomatic exchanges between Washington and Beijing continue, with recent high-level engagements including Dun’s phone call with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and an upcoming conversation between Trump and Xi Jinping.
Additionally, efforts are underway to ease trade tensions, exemplified by a framework agreement on TikTok signed in Madrid.
Nonetheless, experts note that military contact remains limited, with most competition occurring within economic and diplomatic spheres in a complicated and tense international landscape.