China Hosts Global Military Forum Amid Regional Tensions

China is set to commence its annual Xiangshan Forum on September 12, 2024, a significant military diplomacy event aimed at expanding the nation's influence among developing countries. The three-day gathering in Beijing will bring together representatives from more than 90 countries and international organizations, focusing on the theme "Promoting Peace for a Shared Future."

The forum, first established in 2006, serves as a platform for China to present itself as a responsible player in global security matters. This comes despite ongoing regional tensions, particularly in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. Recent months have seen escalating disputes, including accusations of intentional vessel collisions between China and the Philippines in contested waters.

Michael Chase, the U.S. deputy assistant secretary of defense for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia, will attend the forum. His participation marks a higher-level representation compared to the previous year, potentially signaling improved working-level engagement between the two nations. This development follows the reopening of regular communication channels between the U.S. and China after a nearly two-year pause.

"We must resolutely crush Taiwan independence attempts and create a favorable strategic posture for reunification."

Dong Jun, China's Defense Minister, is expected to deliver the keynote address at the forum's opening ceremony on September 13. Appointed in December 2023 following an anti-corruption purge in the military's top echelons, Dong has previously taken a strong stance on Taiwan-related issues.

The forum will feature seminars on various topics, including Asia-Pacific security, U.S.-China relations, and peace in the Middle East. The ongoing Gaza crisis is anticipated to dominate discussions, with China likely to promote its efforts for peace and advocacy for Palestinians.

While most Western countries are sending small, low-level delegations, preferring to address international security issues at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, NATO has confirmed its participation with representatives from its Global Partnerships Section.

The Xiangshan Forum, often compared to the Munich Security Conference in Europe, has gained prominence since its inception. It was renamed the "Beijing Xiangshan Forum" in 2018, reflecting its growing importance in China's military diplomacy efforts. This approach to diplomacy became a key aspect of China's foreign policy in the 1990s.

As China continues to increase its defense budget annually, the forum provides an opportunity for the nation to showcase its military modernization and strategic thinking. However, it also highlights the complex geopolitical landscape, with ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea involving multiple countries and tensions surrounding Taiwan's status.

The event underscores China's growing role in global affairs, including its increased involvement in Middle East diplomacy. As the forum unfolds, it will be closely watched for insights into China's strategic priorities and its approach to addressing international security challenges.