China Emphasizes Gulf Security as Key to Regional Stability

Doha, Qatar Jul 24, 2026 ALN: The Chinese embassy in Doha recently celebrated the 99th Anniversary of the Founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), underscoring the long-standing and amicable relations between Qatar and China. This event, held on July 22, was attended by key figures including Chinese ambassador Cao Xiaolin and Senior Colonel Yang Yongzhi, the defence attache at the embassy. Notable Qatari officials present included Major General Mohamed Rashid al-Shahwani, who heads the International Military Co-operation Authority, and Brigadier General Rajah Mohamed al-Nabit, Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces, among other senior diplomats and heads of various diplomatic missions in Doha.

The celebration of the PLA's anniversary is not merely a ceremonial occasion; it represents a significant milestone in the context of China-Qatar relations, which have seen substantial growth over the past few decades. The relationship has been characterized by mutual respect, economic collaboration, and a shared vision for regional stability. China has increasingly positioned itself as a key player in the Middle East, with Qatar serving as a crucial partner due to its strategic location and wealth of natural resources.

During the celebration, Senior Colonel Yongzhi highlighted the strong ties between China and Qatar, emphasizing that both nations are committed to peaceful development and mutual cooperation. He noted that in recent years, the armed forces of both countries have engaged in productive cooperation through high-level exchanges, military-to-military engagements, professional education, personnel training, and collaboration within the defense industry. This ongoing partnership has significantly strengthened the strategic mutual trust between the two nations, allowing them to address common security challenges more effectively.

Yongzhi pointed out that Qatar has actively participated in various military exchanges, including sending officers to the Second Shanghai Co-operation Organisation Junior-and-Middle-Level Officers’ Exchange. This engagement illustrates Qatar's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities through international cooperation and knowledge sharing. Additionally, several leading Chinese defense companies took part in the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX), showcasing the growing military collaboration between the two countries. Military officers from both sides have also pursued studies at each other's military academies, which he described as vivid reflections of the burgeoning friendship and practical cooperation between their armed forces.

Expressing optimism about the future, Yongzhi stated that as the China-Qatar Strategic Partnership continues to deepen, the prospects for cooperation in defense and security will expand even further. He articulated China's vision for peace and security, emphasizing that the Chinese military is committed to promoting stability not only in the Gulf region but also globally. This commitment is particularly relevant given the complex security landscape that the Gulf has faced in recent years, marked by geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts, and the ongoing challenges posed by non-state actors.

Yongzhi elaborated on the multifaceted security challenges that have emerged in the Gulf, including the spillover effects of regional conflicts, disruptions to maritime shipping, alterations to international flight routes, and significant fluctuations in energy prices. These challenges have highlighted the critical importance of peace and security in the region, which is vital for maintaining economic stability and regional cooperation. The Gulf region is a hub for global energy supplies, and any instability can have far-reaching implications not only for the countries directly involved but also for the broader international economy.

In his remarks, Yongzhi asserted that genuine peace can only be achieved through dialogue, consultation, and shared development, reflecting a philosophy that aligns with China's broader foreign policy objectives. This approach emphasizes the importance of building sustainable relationships based on mutual benefit and respect, rather than coercion or dominance. He reiterated that China remains steadfast in its commitment to a defensive national defense policy and has no intentions of pursuing hegemony, expansion, or spheres of influence. This position is particularly important in the context of rising global tensions and competition among major powers, as it seeks to present China as a responsible global player committed to peace and stability.

Yongzhi also discussed the humanitarian missions undertaken by the Chinese military in cooperation with the United Nations, highlighting China's role in various peacekeeping missions around the world. He noted that China is the largest contributor of peacekeepers among the permanent members of the UN Security Council and the second-largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget. Over the past three decades, China has deployed more than 50,000 peacekeepers to over 20 UN peacekeeping missions, demonstrating its commitment to international peace and security. This commitment is often contrasted with the military interventions of other nations, positioning China as a proponent of multilateralism and cooperative security.

During his address, Yongzhi paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Chinese peacekeepers, noting that seventeen have lost their lives while serving in peacekeeping operations. Such acknowledgments serve to reinforce the importance of peacekeeping missions and the human cost associated with maintaining global stability. Since late 2008, the Chinese Navy has maintained a continuous escort mission in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia, underscoring China's dedication to maritime security in these critical areas. This naval presence is part of a broader strategy to ensure the safety of shipping lanes that are vital for international trade.

He highlighted that more than 40 escort task forces have provided protection for over 7,000 Chinese and foreign commercial vessels. Given that the Gulf region's prosperity is heavily reliant on maritime trade and energy transportation, ensuring the security of these vital sea lanes is of paramount importance. The implications of this commitment extend beyond mere military presence; they reflect China's strategic interests in safeguarding its economic routes and fostering stability in a region that is often fraught with geopolitical tensions. The security of maritime routes is not only crucial for China, which imports a significant portion of its energy supplies from the Gulf, but also for the global economy at large.

As the PLA celebrates its anniversary, the emphasis on peace and security resonates deeply within the context of current global dynamics. Yongzhi's remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining stability in the Gulf region, which is not only crucial for the countries directly involved but also for the broader international community. The Gulf serves as a critical nexus for energy supplies and trade routes, making its security a matter of global concern. The interconnectedness of global economies means that disruptions in this region can have cascading effects worldwide, highlighting the necessity for cooperative security measures.

In conclusion, the events surrounding the 99th Anniversary of the Founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army highlight the evolving defense and security relationship between China and Qatar. As both nations navigate the complexities of regional security, their commitment to cooperation and mutual development will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future stability of the Gulf region. The ongoing dialogue and military exchanges between the two countries reflect a shared understanding of the necessity for peace, security, and development in a world marked by uncertainty and change. The strategic partnership between China and Qatar could serve as a model for other nations seeking to enhance their security cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.