Beijing Xiangshan Forum: Security issues discussed during high-level talks

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Europe

03:04

The 8th Beijing Xiangshan Forum has wrapped up in the Chinese capital, having covered security issues relevant to the Asia-Pacific and further afield. Topics covered included maritime security, as well as frictions and cooperation among countries. Our reporter Zheng Yibing has more.

Out of the many sessions at the forum, it was perhaps the one on maritime security that drew the most attention.

One particular topic under discussion there was the South China Sea.

As one participant suggested, all relevant parties should increase trust and avoid confrontation.

CESAR B. YANO PHILIPPINE UNDER-SECRETARY FOR DEFENSE OPERATIONS "There should be no successful one at the expense of others. There is really a need for countries whether within the region or other major powers or partners to continue talking and discussing."

Meanwhile, the efforts to boost cooperation were being realized in South China's Zhanjiang, as the first-ever ASEAN-China Maritime Exercise got underway.

The Chinese defense ministry said on Thursday that the exercise aims to promote better understanding and mutual trust between all sides.

WU QIAN SPOKESPERSON, CHINESE MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEFENSE "It will contribute to peace and stability in the South China Sea, as well as the building of a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future."

Back at the Beijing forum, a Chinese navy commander talked about the relationship between the Chinese and US militaries, particularly in the South China Sea.

He noted that, despite the recent frictions, the defense ministers from both countries just met in Singapore with good intentions. He said the outcome of their discussion still remains to be seen.

LIU YI DEPUTY COMMANDER OF CHINESE PLA NAVY "When facing security threats and challenges, no country can manage alone or stand aloof. Only through strengthening cooperation, can smooth maritime transportation and stability be guaranteed."

Sensitive issues covered included Washington's withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Force Treaty with Russia.

Some delegates showed concern over President Trump's decision.

SAVAS BICER, HEAD INT'L RELATIONS DEPT., UNIVERSITY OF NISANTASI, TURKEY "He said feeling some threats, but he is the cause of the main threats for the world."

BERNT BERGER SENIOR FELLOW, GERMAN COUNCIL ON FOREIGN RELATIONS "Well, so far, we don't know if he would really do that, or this is just a threat to create a bargaining situation, but if that really should happen, it will be a disaster, particularly for Europe."

The three-day Beijing Xiangshan Forum draw over 500 participants from 74 countries and seven international organizations.

While no consensus has been achieved during the high-level security talks, the platform aims to bridge the gaps between all sides.

ZHENG YIBING BEIJING "At the closing ceremony, forum organizers thanked all participants, pledging hopes for better strategic talks, ways to jointly respond to global challenges and jointly maintaining peace and stability. Zheng Yibing, CGTN, Beijing."