China's Defense Minister, Li Shangfu, has expressed his commitment to bolstering military connections with various countries around the world. However, noticeably absent from the list is the United States, China's biggest economic and geopolitical rival. While speaking at a security conference in Moscow, Li emphasized China's willingness to deepen military cooperation with neighboring countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and elevate ties with Europe.
Li also highlighted China's intention to strengthen traditional friendships with nations in Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Southern Pacific. These remarks, broadcast on Russian state television, indicate China's efforts to expand its military partnerships globally while excluding the United States from its plans.
The strained relationship between China and the United States has led to the suspension of high-level military dialogues. This breakdown was triggered by tensions that arose after former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last year. China has refused to permit any communication between Li Shangfu and his US counterpart until the Biden administration lifts the sanctions imposed on him in 2018.
During a recent meeting with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger in Beijing, Li indirectly blamed "some people" in the US for the deterioration of ties. He criticized what he referred to as the "hegemonic practice" of meddling in other countries' internal affairs, which is increasingly facing global resistance.
Li's visit to Moscow reaffirms China's commitment to its alliance with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite minor conflicts that occurred between Chinese nationals and Russian officials at a border checkpoint earlier this month. China's defense minister described the military relationship between China and Russia as a "model for cooperation," emphasizing that their ties are non-confrontational and not aimed at any third party.
In a show of their close military partnership, China and Russia recently conducted their seventh bilateral military exercises, marking the highest number of joint drills they have held in the past two decades. This highlights the deepening collaboration between the two nations in the military sphere.
Apart from Russia, China is also seeking to expand its influence in the Middle East. The recent announcement of joint air force exercises between China and the United Arab Emirates further underscores China's efforts to vie for influence in the region, where the United States has traditionally held considerable sway.