Commentary
China’s decision to downscale its participation in this year’s Shangri-La Dialogue raises critical questions: Was this a strategic withdrawal to save face or a realist maneuver to undermine the forum’s influence?
Thinking About China
Opinion
China Keeps a Low Profile at the 2025 Shangri-La Dialogue: Strategic Withdrawal or Tactical Retreat?
Police vehicles are seen at the Shangri-La Hotel during the 22nd IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 30, 2025. Organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the annual conference brings together senior defense officials to debate and discuss current and pressing global and regional security challenges. Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images
Charles Davis
Author
Charles Davis is a military veteran and lecturer with an intelligence background. His military awards include: two Bronze Star Service Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, NATO Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Saudi Arabia Liberation Medal, and Kuwait Liberation Medal.
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