Exovera’s report, Military Diplomacy Report for May 2025, examines the PLA’s publications on global military engagement activities across more than 30 countries and regions. Through articles on bilateral meetings, joint exercises, and multilateral forums, the PLA described its deepening defense ties with countries such as Cambodia, Egypt, and Singapore, while also citing continued high-level engagements with key partners like Russia and France. These activities underscore Beijing’s effort to project the image of a responsible power and to counterbalance U.S. alliances.
The report notes a strategic emphasis on countries participating in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with senior-level dialogues often reinforcing economic and military partnerships in tandem. Several visits also reflect attempts to build influence in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the PLA’s growing presence in multilateral defense dialogues and security cooperation events suggests an effort to legitimize its global posture.
