Beijing (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Chinese defence minister boasted about Beijing’s push to reshape global governance, cautioning on Thursday against a world growing more divided “defined by the rule of the jungle”. He also emphasised that his country’s robust military would be a force for peace.
These comments come amid growing tensions between Beijing and Washington, as well as its allies and partners, over key issues in East Asia, including Taiwan and the South China Sea, along with broader economic rivalries under US President Donald Trump.
What concerns did the Chinese defence minister raise in Beijing?
At the official opening of the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on security, Dong Jun stated that the world is at a critical juncture, dominated by Cold War ideologies, power struggles, and trade barriers, and must prioritise dialogue over conflict.
“External military interference, seeking spheres of influence, and coercing others to take sides will bring the international community into chaos,”
Dong added.
How do China’s tensions with the us shape these remarks?
As reported by Reuters, his comments included subtle digs at the United States and seemed more hawkish than his speech at last year’s event, especially when discussing issues like tension over democratic Taiwan.
“An obsession with absolute superiority in military strength and a ‘might is right’ approach will lead to a divided world defined by the rule of the jungle and disorder,”
Dong said. He also said a strong Chinese military would be a force for peace.
These comments come after President Xi Jinping‘s recent speeches against “hegemonism and power politics,” as well as this month’s massive military parade in Beijing that showcased a range of new weapons.
What did U.S. Defence Secretary and Dong discuss over a phone call?
Last week, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke with Dong over the telephone in their first direct engagement. They agreed to maintain open communication channels, avoid conflict, and respect mutual core interests such as Taiwan and the South China Sea, emphasising a candid and constructive military dialogue.
What will Trump and Xi discuss in their upcoming call?
U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to have a telephone exchange on Friday, September 19, 2025.
The upcoming call is highly awaited as the two leaders are expected to discuss a range of topics, including trade negotiations, rare earth minerals, the future of TikTok in the US, Taiwan, and other bilateral issues. Importantly, this phone call will be the first time the two leaders have spoken directly since June of 2025, and it will take place just before a possible face-to-face summit at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in South Korea at the end of October.
