China's defence minister cautions against formation of NATO-like alliances in Asia-pacific

By Nick Holt | Sunday June 4, 2023

China’s Defense Minister Li Shangfu has expressed concerns about the potential consequences of establishing NATO-like alliances in the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security conference in Singapore, Li argued against advocating for exclusive alliances and stressed the importance of open and inclusive cooperation.

Li stated, "In essence, to push for such alliances in the region is a way of kidnapping regional countries and fueling confrontation, which will only plunge the Asia-Pacific into a whirlpool of disputes and conflicts." This statement reflects his viewpoint on the potential negative outcomes associated with such alliances.