Latest news with #regionalStability
CNA
3 days ago
- General
- CNA
China rejects 'groundless accusations' at Shangri-La Dialogue, says it opposes unilateralism, hegemonic bullying
SINGAPORE: China's top official at a global defence dialogue on Saturday (May 31) rejected 'accusations' made against the country as unfounded and politically motivated, and asserted its commitment to protecting and improving regional security. 'We do not accept groundless accusations against China. Some of these claims are completely fabricated, some distort the truth, and some are outright cases of 'the thief crying thief',' said Rear Admiral Hu Gangfeng, who is leading a delegation from the National Defense University of the People's Liberation Army at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. 'They are essentially aimed at provoking conflict, creating division, inciting confrontation, and destabilising the Asia-Pacific,' he said, adding that such actions 'go against the tide of the times, are unpopular, and will not succeed.' Speaking at a session titled 'Cooperative maritime security in the Asia-Pacific', Hu said maritime security in the region remains 'generally stable' and the South China Sea remains 'one of the world's safest and busiest sea lanes' for navigation. He also said China proposes upholding 'true multilateralism' and preserving maritime security order in the Asia-Pacific. 'We support the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits in Asia-Pacific governance. We oppose unilateralism, hegemonic bullying, and turning Asia-Pacific waters into arenas for power games,' he added. 'We firmly oppose illegal actions that sow division, obstruct reunification, and harm sovereign nations' core interests.' Hu did not specify which countries or which accusations he was rebutting. But earlier in the day, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had warned of the 'threat' China poses as he called on allies in the Indo-Pacific to spend more on their own defence needs. 'China's army is rehearsing for the real deal,' Hegseth said in his speech. 'We are not going to sugarcoat it – the threat China poses is real. And it could be imminent.' Hegseth said the US would continue to strengthen its overseas military posture in response to what he described as intensifying threats from Beijing, particularly its assertiveness over Taiwan. China's military has repeatedly simulated scenarios resembling a blockade of the self-ruled island, which Beijing claims as part of its territory. The US, while maintaining a policy of strategic ambiguity, has pledged to support Taiwan's ability to defend itself. Besides Taiwan Strait tensions, China also has overlapping claims with various parties including Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia in the South China Sea, a vital waterway for global trade. The Shangri-la Dialogue is a key annual defence summit organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Held from May 30 to June 1 this year, it brings together defence ministers, military chiefs, and senior officials from nearly 50 countries. Hu on Saturday also emphasised the need for constructive engagement rather than confrontation at the forum. 'The original intention of holding this meeting is to address problems, not create them; to reduce differences, not widen them. There should be frank and sincere exchanges,' he said. He was also asked about the absence of Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun from the Shangri-la Dialogue this year. 'China attaches great importance to (the event) and has consistently sent delegations to participate over the years,' Hu replied. It sends delegations of different levels from year to year, and this should be seen as part of normal operational arrangements, Hu said. 'This in no way affects our ability to articulate our national defence policies, engage in communication with various parties, or enhance mutual understanding,' he said. 'Objectively speaking, I was entrusted to come here today to share our views and engage with all of you. I believe everyone has clearly heard and understood our genuine position.'
The National
6 days ago
- Business
- The National
Dr Anwar Gargash urges Arab world to embrace change as 'era of ideologies is over'
Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, on Wednesday urged the Arab world to abandon outdated ideologies that serve only to sow division in an evolving political and economic landscape. Dr Gargash, speaking on the final day of the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, said there was a "national and Arab responsibility" to keep pace with a changing global picture to cement regional stability and harness the talents of its youth. In a wide-ranging address, the senior Emirati diplomat underlined the need for countries to shift focus from military power to emerging technology and championing education. 'There is uncertainty now and we will witness major changes in different sectors like AI, economy and the international system," said Dr Gargash. "For the first time, the US is prioritising its national interests over their traditional political alignments. 'Our national and Arab responsibility requires us to engage with these transformations, especially in the technological, political and economic domains, to ensure the protection of our shared interests and to achieve stability.' Dr Gargash said the Arab world is divided and the Arab political scene has changed, especially in Syria and Lebanon. He said it is time to move past the ideological frameworks that have held the region back. 'The era of ideologies is over,' he said. 'They have only deepened division and weakened nations. In the last two years, during the Gaza war, old ideologies collapsed, yet many still refuse to learn from this experience.' For Lebanon and Syria, Gargash said there are forces trying to keep them stuck in the past, while others are striving to push for a fairer and more prosperous future. Dr Gargash said the UAE decision to formalise diplomatic ties with Israel, through the signing of the Abraham Accords in September, 2020, remained a wise one. He cautioned against those parties that are resistant to such establishment of relations, saying they are impeding progress. 'In the UAE, it was a strategic choice and was the right one,' he said. Dr Gargash emphasised the UAE's steadfast commitment to the Palestinian cause and its support of the two-state solution as the means to bring about peace. 'UAE has played a major humanitarian role in helping Palestinians, delivering 42 per cent of all aid that entered Gaza since October 8, 2023,' Dr Gargash said. He called for nations to work towards improving living standards and opening up more job opportunities to act as a catalyst for security and stability. 'There shouldn't be a state with two armies or one controlled by militias. Priorities should centre on education, providing job opportunities for youth.' He said Gulf countries are successful models in creating opportunities and shaping the future of the region. 'We need to stay away of the illusion of political slogans and working towards building a new reality based on genuine opportunities.'
Asharq Al-Awsat
25-05-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Arab Parliament Speaker Congratulates Gulf Leaders on GCC 44th Anniversary
Speaker of the Arab Parliament Mohammed Al Yammahi extended his congratulations to the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on the occasion of the 44th anniversary of the council's establishment, celebrated annually on May 25. He emphasized that the GCC has, over the years, firmly established itself as a prominent Gulf Arab entity, achieving notable progress in security, economy, development, education, health, and other sectors, SPA reported. Al Yammahi praised the leaders of the GCC member states for their unwavering support and continued efforts to strengthen cooperation in pursuit of regional stability and prosperity. He also commended the GCC's constructive role in Arab affairs—particularly in supporting the Palestinian cause—and highlighted the dedication of GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi in advancing joint Gulf initiatives aligned with the leaders' vision and the aspirations of Gulf citizens. He affirmed the Arab Parliament's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the GCC at all levels, with the goal of achieving deeper integration and unified efforts that fulfill the aspirations of the council's peoples and the broader Arab community for security, stability, and prosperity.
Zawya
23-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
‘Qatar-Egypt relations mark new era of strategic diplomacy'
Doha: The relations between Qatar and Egypt have seen a significant evolution over the past decade, marked by greater cooperation, realism, and a shared commitment to regional stability, an official explained. Speaking to The Peninsula on the sidelines of the Qatar Economic Forum - Egypt's former Foreign Minister and Ambassador to the United States, Nabil Fahmy emphasised that diplomacy, mutual interests, and coordinated efforts in conflict resolution are driving forces behind this transformation. 'The relations between Qatar and Egypt have developed considerably over the last decade or so. There is much more in common now, much more wisdom, much more realism,' Fahmy said. A major point of convergence, he noted, is the shared recognition that regional instability comes at a cost for all involved. 'Both sides understand that diplomacy is ultimately the best tool for medium-sized nations,' Fahmy stated, underscoring a joint preference for dialogue over confrontation. Bilateral ties have strengthened economically, with increasing Qatari investment in Egypt and expanded trade and professional exchanges. High-level visits, including by both countries' heads of state, have become more frequent. 'There is more Qatari investment in Egypt and more cooperation with the Qatari market by Egyptians,' he said. Energy remains a cornerstone of bilateral cooperation between the two nations, with the potential for expanded efforts in climate and environmental issues. Fahmy said, 'I would also argue that the focus of joint Qatar-Egypt initiatives is always on the energy sector. However, it is essential for deeper collaboration on food security, water scarcity, and climate resilience.' One area of critical cooperation is the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Egypt and Qatar have played instrumental roles in seeking a ceasefire, facilitating hostage releases, and promoting broader peace efforts. 'They both have been working hard to end the war in Gaza, releasing hostages and those incarcerated by Israelis over the years,' Fahmy said while highlighting the ultimate goal of reviving the peace process between Palestinians and Israelis. The former minister also issued a stark warning against the erosion of international norms. 'You cannot have sustained peace unless it's based on the rule of law, not the rule of force,' Fahmy said, criticising the lack of accountability for Israel's actions in Gaza, particularly by Western allies. 'The Middle East and the world is losing its humanity. When you argue that we need to be principled in Ukraine but not in Gaza, you lose a lot of credibility,' he added. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
18-05-2025
- Politics
- Times of Oman
Sayyid Badr emphasises dialogue for conflict resolution
Tehran: Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, emphasised the paramount importance of dialogue as an essential instrument for addressing challenges, while highlighting the Sultanate of Oman's unwavering commitment to this indispensable approach - regardless of its complexity - even with parties with whom significant differences may exist. This was stated during Sayyid Badr's address at the Fourth Tehran Dialogue Forum, convened under the patronage of President Masoud Pezeshkian of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The forum brought together foreign ministers, senior government officials, policymakers, and thought leaders from across the globe, alongside representatives of regional and international organisations. The Foreign Minister reaffirmed the importance that the Sultanate of Oman attaches to its existing bilateral relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, while simultaneously commending the flexibility, precision, and candour that the Iranian counterpart brings to Oman's contributions in regional and international dialogues. Sayyid Badr particularly focused on the Palestinian cause, describing the violence and genocide endured by the Palestinian people as 'a global tragedy that should never have occurred' - one that could have been prevented had opportunities for dialogue been seized. This remark referenced both the refusal of successive Israeli governments to engage in substantive dialogue with the Palestinian side and the international community's failure to exercise effective influence. Flexible approach He expressed optimism regarding developments emerging in recent months, particularly from the United States of America, which may indicate a shift toward a more realistic and flexible approach regarding potential dialogue partners. The minister noted that this development, though occurring amidst military escalation and immense humanitarian suffering, suggests a renewed willingness for genuine dialogue - even as Tel Aviv continues attempts to circumvent it through escalation on multiple fronts. Sayyid Badr emphasised that while dialogue is not an easy option, it remains the only viable path to achieving a just settlement. He cited what he termed 'the horrific lesson' embodied by the Gaza tragedy when courage to engage in dialogue is absent. The minister expressed hope that this Tehran forum would help attract more voices advocating dialogue and strengthen the international community's conviction that solutions are built not through force but through understanding and openness. The current session of the forum examined the role of regional states in the evolving global order, reviewing key shared challenges in political, economic and energy domains, while exploring ways to enhance multilateral cooperation mechanisms for addressing international crises amid rapid geopolitical transformations. -ONA
