China’s Defense Minister, Dong Jun, met with naval chiefs from African nations on Thursday, emphasizing the importance of a “shared destiny” in fostering stronger ties between China and Africa.
Dong welcomed naval commanders from Nigeria, Gabon, and 16 other countries in Shanghai during the 2nd Seminar on the Security Situation in the Gulf of Guinea, organized by the Chinese Navy.
“The Gulf of Guinea is the common home of regional countries and a vital link for China and Africa to enhance exchanges, cooperation, and build a community with a shared future for the ocean,” Dong stated.
Highlighting China’s commitment to maritime security, Dong expressed the nation’s willingness to collaborate with African armed forces to promote systematic maritime cooperation, uphold security, and nurture the longstanding friendship between China and the region.
He urged all parties to work together for regional prosperity, emphasizing the role of security in advancing an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.”
Dong’s participation in the seminar follows allegations in a UK-based Financial Times report claiming he was under investigation. China’s Defense Ministry dismissed the claims as baseless, describing them as “shadow chasing.”
The ministry later confirmed that Miao Hua, a top member of the Central Military Commission (CMC), is under investigation for a “serious violation of rules,” a term often linked to corruption. Dong, who is not a member of the CMC, has not been implicated in the probe.
