China’s defence minister urges more unity to avoid ‘law of the jungle’

China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun trumpeted Beijing’s efforts to reshape global governance, warning on Sept 18 against an increasingly divided world “defined by the rule of the jungle”, while saying his country’s strong military would be a force for peace.

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The remarks come amid simmering tension between China and the United States and its allies and partners over flashpoints across East Asia, including Taiwan and the South China Sea, as well as broader economic rivalries under US President Donald Trump.

Formally opening the Beijing Xiangshan Forum on security, Mr Dong said the world is at a crossroads overshadowed by Cold War thinking, hegemony and _protectionism, and has to choose dialogue over confrontation.

“External military interference, seeking spheres of influence and coercing others to take sides will bring the international community into chaos,” he added.

His remarks took veiled swipes at the US and appeared more hawkish than his speech at the forum in 2024, particularly on topics such as tension over democratically governed Taiwan.

“An obsession with absolute superiority in military strength anda ‘might is right’ approach will lead to a divided world defined by the rule of the jungle and disorder,’ Mr Dong said.

A strong Chinese military would be a force for peace, he added.