29 Countries Gather in China for 19th Western Pacific Naval Symposium

The 19th Western Pacific Naval Symposium (WPNS) commenced in Qingdao, China bringing together over 180 representatives from 29 countries to deepen maritime exchanges and cooperation. Hosted by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, the four-day event aims to strengthen communication and collaboration among participating navies in the Asia-Pacific region.

Key topics on the agenda include maritime security, disaster response, and joint exercises. The symposium provides a platform for naval leaders and experts to share best practices and explore ways to enhance regional maritime cooperation. "The event focuses on promoting cooperation and understanding among the participating nations on maritime security and other related issues," stated Senior Colonel Wu Qian, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense.

The WPNS, a biennial gathering, has been instrumental in fostering dialogue and trust among naval forces in the Western Pacific. This year's symposium is particularly significant as it marks the first in-person meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted international gatherings. "The 19th WPNS serves as a reminder of the resilience and commitment of our naval forces to maintain open lines of communication and work together towards common goals," remarked Admiral Dong Jun, China's Defense Minister.

Why this matters: The Western Pacific Naval Symposium serves as a vital forum for addressing shared maritime challenges and promoting regional stability. As geopolitical tensions persist in the Asia-Pacific, the symposium's role in fostering trust and cooperation among naval powers becomes increasingly critical.

Alongside the symposium, China's Ministry of National Defense has organized various international security cooperation seminars and briefed the media on matters related to national defense, including the development of the PLA's Cyberspace Force and China's stance on the Taiwan issue. The PLA Navy's hosting of the 19th WPNS demonstrates China's commitment to engaging with regional partners and contributing to maritime security in the Asia-Pacific.

Key Takeaways

• 19th Western Pacific Naval Symposium held in Qingdao, China, with 180+ representatives from 29 countries.
• Symposium aims to strengthen maritime cooperation, address security, disaster response, and joint exercises.
• First in-person meeting since COVID-19, showcasing naval forces' resilience and commitment to communication.
• The symposium serves as a vital forum for addressing shared maritime challenges and promoting regional stability.
• PLA Navy's hosting demonstrates China's commitment to engaging with regional partners on maritime security.