China plans to train 3,000 law enforcement officers from various countries over the next year, according to public security minister Wang Xiaohong. This initiative follows the training of 2,700 officers in the past year and is part of China’s broader effort to establish itself as a global security provider.
Wang announced the plans during a speech at the annual Global Security Initiative (GSI) conference in Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, which hosted law enforcement officials from 122 countries and international organizations, including Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Interpol.
The GSI, proposed by Chinese leader Xi Jinping in 2022, aims to address international security issues through cooperative efforts. However, some analysts view it as a strategy to expand China’s global influence and challenge the existing US-led security framework.
Benjamin Ho, an assistant professor at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, suggested that the GSI represents a Chinese alternative to Western approaches, reflecting China’s desire to enhance its influence.
Wang criticized the “politicization” of international law enforcement cooperation and condemned any form of hegemonism and bullying. He also noted that regional security issues, such as the Ukraine war, the Israel-Palestinian conflict, and tensions in the Red Sea, continue to have global repercussions.
At the conference, Chinese companies showcased advanced policing equipment, including rose-gold handcuffs, batons, bulletproof vests, and face-recognition software. These exhibits highlighted China’s advancements in surveillance and security technology, which are being presented as solutions for countries facing domestic security challenges.
