Latest news with #GlobalSecurityInitiative
News18
5 days ago
- Politics
- News18
China exploits Africa as testing ground for its global security agenda
Washington DC [US], August 8 (ANI): Launched by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2022, the Global Security Initiative (GSI) represents a significant effort by China to reshape global governance and establish a favourable environment for its resurgence as a Great Power, the Africa Center for Strategic Studies the GSI is publicly framed around themes of cooperative security, non-interference, and respect for the United Nations Charter, messages that resonate strongly across Africa and the developing world, its foundations lie firmly within Chinese concepts of national security. According to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, the GSI Concept Paper issued in 2023 must be understood alongside China's 2025 White Paper on National Security, which outlines four pillars: political (regime) security as the foundation, economic security as the base, military and social security as the guarantee, and international security as initiative is evolving from vague principles into tangible policies. At the Ninth Forum for China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in September 2024, Xi described the FOCAC 2025-2027 Action Plan as an 'example of early GSI implementation," underlining the integration of Chinese security strategy into Africa. Between late 2024 and mid-2025, eight high-level military exchanges took place, including a training event in Nanjing for 90 early-career African officers from 40 countries hosted by the People's Liberation Africa Center for Strategic Studies highlights how the GSI's incorporation into China-Africa relations carries direct implications for security cooperation. The FOCAC Action Plan targets training 6,000 senior and 500 early-career African officers, alongside 1,000 police officers by 2027, aligning with China's broader push to mainstream the perspectives on the GSI are mixed. While some governments welcome enhanced access to economic aid, infrastructure financing, and affordable security equipment, others raise concerns about the risks tied to China's emphasis on absolute ruling party control over 'national security work." Africa's fraught history with authoritarian regimes informs fears that Chinese security models could undermine democratic civil-military relations and entrench party supremacy over the the Africa Center for Strategic Studies warns that GSI-related security ties risk drawing African countries into global geopolitical rivalries, especially as countering Western influence is central to GSI narratives. This threatens Africa's traditional commitment to GSI is part of a broader Chinese agenda alongside the Global Development Initiative and the Global Civilizational Initiative, all designed to challenge Western-led global norms. The GSI's six core principles — including respect for sovereignty, abiding by the UN Charter, and promoting cooperative security — are carefully crafted to appeal to developing countries but mask China's strategic interests, such as defending territorial claims and prioritizing regime growing military and law enforcement cooperation with African countries, such as joint operations, training programs, and security agreements protecting Belt and Road investments, demonstrates how the GSI is operationalised on the continent. Roughly 40 African countries now have ties with Chinese police institutions, highlighting the deepening of China's security to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, African leaders and civil society must critically assess these developments. 'The opportunities will depend on whether African countries can exert greater agency," said security expert Lungani Hlongwa. Local stakeholders are urged to set agendas that reflect genuine security needs and ensure cooperation does not undermine democratic norms or citizen the GSI continues to unfold globally, its impact on African security governance and international alignments will remain a crucial area for scrutiny and debate. The Africa Center for Strategic Studies calls for greater transparency and domestic engagement in shaping security cooperation with China to safeguard African sovereignty and democratic values. (ANI)
Qatar Tribune
30-07-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
China-Qatar strategic partnership has entered a ‘golden era', says envoy
Ashraf Siddiqui Doha Under the strategic leadership of the Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Amir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the China-Qatar strategic partnership has entered its most robust period, undergoing an 11-year 'Golden Era' of development, Ambassador of China to Qatar HE Cao Xiolin has said. The envoy was speaking at a reception to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA).Present on the occasion were Brigadier-General Abdulbaqi S. Al Ansari, representing Qatar Emiri Naval Commander; Brigadier-General Fahad Al Marri, representing Commander of the Qatar Amiri Signal Corps; diplomats; members of the media and guests. The Chinese ambassador emphasised the significance of ongoing defence cooperation between China and Qatar, describing it as a vital component in enhancing bilateral ties and contributing to global and regional underscored China's peaceful rise, commitment to sovereignty, and opposition to hegemonism and power politics. Reflecting on history, he drew attention to China's central role in the Eastern Front during World War II and the heavy sacrifices made by the Chinese people during the war against Japanese aggression. The ambassador reiterated China's dedication to multilateralism and international peacebuilding, referencing the Global Security Initiative launched by President Xi in also spoke about China's humanitarian efforts, especially in relation to the Gaza crisis, highlighting China's role in supporting ceasefire efforts and providing aid. In his address on the occasion, Colonel Yang Yongzhi, defence attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Qatar, acknowledged Qatar's proactive role in global peace efforts under the leadership of HH the Amir. He commended Qatar's mediation in regional conflicts and its active engagement in counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and international security a founding member of the Global Counterterrorism Forum and a strategic partner of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, Qatar has played a significant role in enhancing global resilience, he said. Col. Yang also highlighted the steady growth of China-Qatar military relations, marked by high-level exchanges, expanded naval and air force cooperation, and collaboration in military education and defense affirmed China's commitment to strengthening strategic coordination and promoting regional and global peace. He also outlined China's Global Security Initiative and the PLA's contributions to peacekeeping, maritime security, and humanitarian missions, including deployments in UN operations and disaster relief efforts worldwide.
Kuwait Times
30-07-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait, China near completion of joint ammunition factory
Deputy Defense Minister hails military cooperation with China as 'strategic pathway' KUWAIT: Deputy Minister of Defense Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshal Al-Sabah reaffirmed the importance of Kuwaiti Chinese military cooperation, describing it as a 'strategic pathway'. On the sidelines of a reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait, marking the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), he highlighted Kuwait's participation as a reflection of the strong ties between the two countries, particularly in defense cooperation. 'The Ministry of Defense's presence here today expresses the depth of our military relationship with China, alongside our broader collaboration across various sectors,' he said. He revealed that Kuwait and China are currently engaged in several joint defense projects, most notably the near completion of a factory for medium and light ammunition. 'This project is a milestone in our cooperation, and its inauguration is expected soon,' Deputy Minister noted. He pointed out that bilateral collaboration extends to national infrastructure, including the development of Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port and major housing initiatives. The Deputy Minister also emphasized the continuity and annual expansion of training programs between the Kuwaiti and Chinese armed forces. He underscored that Kuwait's defense policy focuses on strengthening ties with Gulf and Arab neighbors while also fostering strategic partnerships with friendly countries worldwide. During his remarks, Chinese Chargé d'Affaires Liu Xiang announced Senior Colonel Liu Zongzhen as the new Defense Attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Kuwait. He expressed confidence that the newly appointed military envoy would play a pivotal role in deepening defense and diplomatic relations between the two countries. The Chinese Chargé d'Affaires praised Kuwait's consistent support for China's global initiatives, noting that His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was the first Gulf leader to endorse China's Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative. 'China is ready to work hand in hand with Kuwait and other friends to uphold peaceful development, defend multilateralism, and build a shared future for humanity,' he concluded.
Zawya
29-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
The 3 rd conference on peace and development for the horn of Africa opens at Four Points hotel, Kampala
The Conference in an initiative of the People's Republic of China and brings together regional countries in the Horn of Africa—Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda. Also participating are delegations from the United Nations, International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the East African Community (EAC). The Conference was officially opened by Hon. John Mulimba, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Regional Affairs). He thanked the Government of the People's Republic of China for the strong cooperation with Africa to promote peace and sustainable development, through the Global Security Initiative which has contributed meaningfully to the international discourse on collective security. He appreciated China's approach to regional peace and development which focuses on dialogue, respect for national sovereignty and comprehensive approaches to conflict. H.E. Mr. Xue Bing, China's Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Affairs, represented the Government of the People's Republic of China and thanked the Government of Uganda for hosting the Conference. He reiterated China's commitment to actively engage with regional countries in various initiatives that promote peace and development. He said China will continue to strengthen cooperation with Africa in areas such as military assistance and trade, counter-terrorism, landmines eradication and military personnel training to jointly maintain security and stability in the region. Mr. Xue Bing said China's engagement with the region on peace and development will be anchored on three pillars: first, the need to uphold dialogue for peace and safeguard universal security; secondly, the need to explore the potential for cooperation and realize common prosperity; and third, the need to deepen exchange of experience in governance and safeguard international justice and fairness. Recognizing the role of economic cooperation in promoting peace and development, China is ready to negotiate and sign the Agreement on China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development. China will also expand the zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines to 53 African countries. China will also encourage more Chinese Enterprises to invest in the region, increase the added value of their products and localization to boost economies and create jobs. During the Conference, delegates will review the achievements of FOCAC and discuss related issues such as connectivity and infrastructure; development cooperation and industrial development; climate resilience and food security' as well as multilateralism and global governance. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda - Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Arab Times
27-07-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
SCO summit charts bold course for shared prosperity and unity
ZHENGZHOU, China, July 27: With the ancient city of Zhengzhou as its backdrop, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Media and Think Tank Summit has emerged as a powerful platform for shaping a more interconnected, peaceful, and prosperous future among member and partner states. Held in the heart of central China's Henan Province from Wednesday through Sunday, the summit drew over 400 delegates representing nearly 200 media outlets, think tanks, government agencies, and international organizations across the SCO family. Under the banner, 'Upholding the Shanghai Spirit to Build a More Beautiful Home,' participants engaged in robust exchanges that culminated in the Zhengzhou Consensus—a collective call to action that highlights the central role of media and academic institutions in fostering regional collaboration, cultural understanding, and sustainable development. Kuwait's Arab Times English newspaper was present at the summit, represented by Managing Editor Marlon Aquino Malinao. His presence at the summit reinforced Arab Times' commitment to fostering international cooperation through responsible and insightful journalism. A Spirit of Unity and Purpose At the summit's plenary session, leading voices underscored the SCO's expanding influence in safeguarding regional security, promoting economic growth, and advancing mutual respect. Delegates emphasized that amid a rapidly shifting global landscape, SCO media and think tanks are uniquely positioned to amplify the values of peace, cooperation, and inclusivity. 'The SCO is no longer just a regional alliance—it is a global force shaping the future,' said Fu Hua, President of Xinhua News Agency. 'By telling the stories of our cooperation and promoting shared development, we can build trust and deliver real impact.' Echoing this vision, Mo Gaoyi, deputy head of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, called on participants to champion the 'Shanghai Spirit'—mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for cultural diversity, and a desire for shared development. Consensus for the Future According to the newly released Zhengzhou Consensus, SCO media and think tanks should: Strengthen mutual trust and understanding by promoting each country's development path and national conditions. Support the Global Security Initiative, amplifying SCO's peace-focused proposals and narratives. Implement the Global Development Initiative, highlighting the region's strides in economic integration and modernization. Advance the Global Civilization Initiative, promoting respect for cultural diversity and mutual learning. Defend multilateralism by voicing the need for inclusive, fair global governance and opposing hegemonic behavior. The summit also unveiled two major think tank reports: one focusing on building a shared future for the SCO, and another exploring China's modern practices in cultural heritage protection—offering both philosophical grounding and practical models for cooperation. Voices from the Region: Kuwait Highlights Shared Momentum In one of the summit's most well-received addresses, Hebah Abbas, Chairwoman Sustainability Committee of Kuwait Water Association delivered a powerful speech titled 'Advancing Strong Momentum for Shared Prosperity and Development.' Speaking in the plenary's second session, Abbas reflected on the symbolism of hosting the summit in Zhengzhou—where rivers merge, much like the cultures within the SCO. 'China's rise,' she said, 'is not merely an economic miracle—it is an invitation to partnership.' She hailed Chinese-led initiatives such as the Belt and Road, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Development Initiative as engines for shared growth, especially through renewable energy, digital connectivity, and green innovation. Abbas celebrated the 60-year friendship between Kuwait and China, noting milestone collaborations in energy, agriculture, and infrastructure, while calling for bolder regional cooperation through projects such as a Digital Silk Road Fund, a Youth Innovation League, and a Green Finance Accelerator. 'Prosperity,' she concluded, 'is most powerful when shared. Let us stride forward as companions in the same boat, setting sail toward a shore where our children inherit not rivalry, but respect—not scarcity, but abundance.' A United Path Forward With strong endorsements from regional leaders, including a congratulatory message from Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, the summit was a resounding affirmation of the SCO's evolution from a security forum to a multifaceted partnership spanning economic, academic, and civil society domains. As delegates prepare to wrap up the summit on Sunday, the message from Zhengzhou is clear: by aligning voices, sharing stories, and building trust, SCO media and think tanks are not just reporting on change—they are helping lead it. The summit is jointly hosted by Xinhua News Agency, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and the Henan Provincial People's Government, under the guidance of China's State Council Information Office.
