China Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Peace at ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Malaysia

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun attended the 12th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Malaysia on Saturday, where he emphasized China’s commitment to regional peace, cooperation, and shared development.

In his address, Dong highlighted that this year marks the 15th anniversary of the ADMM-Plus mechanism, which has become an important platform for promoting security dialogue and collaboration in the Asia-Pacific region. He said that as the destinies of regional nations become increasingly interconnected, the desire for peace and progress continues to strengthen, even as new global challenges emerge.

Dong underscored that China’s Global Governance Initiative provides constructive solutions to address international changes and security challenges. He noted that the initiative aligns closely with the core principles of the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, both of which prioritize mutual respect, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution.

Calling for unity and mutual understanding, Dong urged all countries to stay true to the founding spirit of the ADMM-Plus — peace, dialogue, and cooperation. He encouraged regional partners to seek common ground while managing differences and to work together toward inclusive development and stability. “All countries should uphold the vision of shared peace, pursue development through cooperation, and ensure that the benefits of security and prosperity are enjoyed by all,” he said.

The defense minister reiterated that China and ASEAN share deep ties as close neighbors with intertwined interests. He stressed that China supports ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs and is willing to collaborate with member states to maintain peace and stability. “China will continue to act as a reliable and stabilizing force in the region,” Dong said, adding that Beijing remains committed to resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation while deepening open and transparent cooperation.

Dong also reaffirmed China’s readiness to contribute further to ADMM-Plus security cooperation, enhance trust among defense establishments, and promote practical collaboration in fields such as maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. He said these efforts are part of China’s broader vision of building a China-ASEAN community with a shared future, one characterized by mutual benefit, trust, and enduring peace.

“China will continue to work hand in hand with ASEAN partners to uphold regional stability and contribute to global peace,” Dong concluded.