The 2026 Beijing Xiangshan Forum Navigator Meeting concluded in Beijing on Saturday, bringing together more than 120 defense officials, scholars, and representatives from over 40 countries and international organizations to address pressing global security challenges.
Co-hosted by the China Association for Military Science and the China Institute for International Strategic Studies, the meeting served as a prelude to the main Beijing Xiangshan Forum scheduled for this fall.
Under the theme "Global Security Governance: Challenges and Approaches," the two-day gathering delved into four major topics: the international order and the rule of law, emerging security challenges in the Asia-Pacific, shared responsibility for global security, and the risks and governance of military applications of emerging technologies.
Throughout the sessions, participants repeatedly underscored that in today's complex international environment, global governance, particularly in the security domain, faces mounting risks and challenges.
They called on all parties to strengthen dialogue and cooperation to enhance mutual trust and better maintain the stability of the international community.
"Overall, the meeting is about seeking common ground while shelving differences, based on the principle of equal dialogue. Every participant has had the opportunity to voice their opinions, and through this exchange, we deepen mutual understanding. I believe such direct communication helps resolve misunderstandings, dispel doubts about each other, and build trust. This will contribute to global peace and security governance," said Yuan Jindong, a research fellow at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Chinese representatives reaffirmed the importance of upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and advancing a fair and equitable global governance system. They emphasized China's dedication to practicing multilateralism and steadfastly serving as a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, and a defender of the international order.
"One of the key roles of the Navigator Meeting is to provide guidance and direction for future dialogue and explore potential areas for cooperation through exchanges. Within the framework of the Global Governance Initiative, scholars and experts from all sides, including those from abroad, have responded positively and expressed clear support for this vision. This will be very helpful for us as we take the next step in hosting the main Beijing Xiangshan Forum later this year," said Yu Xiaopeng, a researcher with the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Academy of Military Sciences.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, which has evolved into a major international platform for defense and security dialogue.
Xiangshan Forum prelude concludes with focus on global security challenges
