Deepen military links to build trust: Eng Hen

Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said history showed that China cannot be isolated from the world if it is to thrive. ST PHOTO: DANSON CHEONG

Military leaders around the world must forge bonds, as these ties are essential in de-escalating tensions, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said at a security conference in Beijing.

Speaking at the 8th Xiangshan Forum, he said China should continue and step up its engagement of others, and help shape the regional security architecture. Military ties and cooperation can be an "institutional ballast" to help deal with thorny bilateral issues, he added.

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe had made a similar call to the annual security forum, urging countries to work with China to deepen security cooperation.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 26, 2018, with the headline Deepen military links to build trust: Eng Hen. Subscribe