China kickstarts Xiangshan Forum in absence of defence minister October 28, 2023 at 11:16PM

The Beijing Xiangshan Forum, China's largest military diplomacy event, has started without a defense minister, who typically hosts the event. China aims to use the forum to promote president Xi Jinping's vision for a safer world and strengthen ties with developing countries. The absence of a defense minister comes at an awkward time for China, as it faces increased coordination between the US and its allies to curb its military ambitions. Despite concerns about the forum's openness, it offers a rare opportunity for engagement with Chinese defense officials and military leaders.