The 2026 Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore underscored growing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, with China’s relatively low-profile representation attracting attention and debates centring on nuclear arms, regional security and competing visions for global governance.

Held from May 29 to 31 and organised by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), the annual forum brought together defence ministers, military leaders and strategic experts from across the world to discuss key security challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region.

Vietnamese President To Lam delivered the keynote address, while US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed delegates on behalf of Washington.

China Sends Lower-Level Delegation

Unlike previous years, when China’s delegation was led by senior defence officials, Beijing was represented by Major General Meng Xiangqing of the People’s Liberation Army’s National Defense University and former vice foreign minister Cui Tiankai.

The relatively low-ranking delegation came against the backdrop of turbulence within China’s military leadership. Former defence ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu have faced corruption investigations and legal proceedings, contributing to speculation about Beijing’s cautious approach to international defence engagements.

Major General Meng participated in discussions on strategic stability, warning about rising nuclear risks and the erosion of global arms control mechanisms.

He argued that countries with the world’s largest nuclear arsenals should assume greater responsibility for disarmament and called for stronger multilateralism and reforms to global governance institutions.

Meng also criticised security arrangements such as AUKUS and questioned Japan’s defence reforms, while advocating greater representation for developing countries and organisations such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Japan Rejects Accusations Of Militarism

Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi strongly rejected suggestions that Tokyo was embracing a new form of militarism.

Addressing the forum, he emphasised Japan’s post-war commitment to international law and a rules-based order, arguing that the country had consistently acted as a peace-loving nation since the end of the Second World War.

Koizumi said the Indo-Pacific faced mounting challenges, including coercion, cyber threats and attempts to alter the status quo by force.

He stressed the importance of direct dialogue and said Japan remained open to engagement despite differences with Beijing.

The exchange reflected broader concerns among regional powers over maritime disputes, military modernisation and strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.

South China Sea And Global Governance Under Spotlight

Former Chinese ambassador to the United States Cui Tiankai, speaking during a separate session on maritime security, advocated cooperation based on sovereignty, consultation and mutual accommodation.

He contrasted partnerships with military alliances, arguing that exclusive blocs could create instability and undermine regional cooperation.

Cui also called for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, while criticising protectionism and confrontational approaches.

The discussions took place amid continuing tensions in the South China Sea and concerns over global flashpoints, including the Strait of Hormuz.

The Shangri-La Dialogue once again highlighted the deep differences between China and its regional rivals over security architecture, international rules and the future balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

While participants broadly agreed on the need for stability and dialogue, competing narratives and strategic mistrust continued to define the conversations at Asia’s premier security forum.

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