According to the Chinese Ministry of Defense, military departments, leaders from nearly 50 African countries, African Union representatives, and military attachés from embassies in China are attending the event.

Under the theme “Implementing the Global Security Initiative, Strengthening China-Africa Solidarity and Cooperation,” participants will seek to “play a positive role in building a community of shared future in the new era,” the Ministry stressed.

The first edition of the forum took place in China in June and July 2018, while the second edition was held online in 2022. Military relations between China and Africa led to the construction of China’s first overseas military base in Djibouti to ensure regional security, official sources reported.

jg/iff/mem/idm