Seeking to expand its influence in Asia beyond economic ties, China has proposed setting up a regional security cooperation framework to tackle non-traditional security challenges.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang made the call yesterday in his keynote speech at the Boao Forum for Asia, urging Asian countries to “jointly fulfil their due responsibilities to achieve peace and stability” essential to regional prosperity and development.

“We should promote security dialogue and consultation, strengthen cooperation on non-traditional security issues, including disaster management, maritime search and rescue, counter-terrorism and combating transnational crimes,” said Li.

… Singapore-based analyst Li Mingjiang said Premier Li’s call for a regional security framework marks a clear shift in China’s position, after years of overtures for closer military cooperation with Asian states gained little traction.

“It has realised it is powerless to bring that about, as many are militarily and strategically close to the United States and still see China as a threat,” the analyst said. “It is turning to non-traditional security in hope of a breakthrough in closer cooperation, and as an area where Chinese leadership could be effective.”