Experts gather in Beijing to debate the relevance of Sun Tzu's strategies today

On December 6, 2024, Beijing hosted the 10th International Symposium on Sun Tzu's Art of War, attracting over 350 representatives from approximately 30 countries and regions. The symposium's theme, "Sun Tzu's Art of War and Mutual Learning among Civilizations," aimed to explore the significance of Sun Tzu’s military philosophy in addressing contemporary global challenges. Attendees included senior military officers, former governmental officials, and scholars who discussed the relevance of Sun Tzu's teachings on conflict prevention and military strategy in today's world. In his keynote address, General Yang Xuejun, head of the People's Liberation Army's Academy of Military Sciences, emphasized the importance of inheriting ancient cultural wisdom while applying it to modern issues. He noted that Sun Tzu's principles can guide states in navigating the intricacies of global development and in establishing a foundation for peace and stability. General Yang's speech laid the groundwork for discussions revolving around themes central to President Xi Jinping's vision of a shared future for humanity. The symposium featured keynote speeches, plenary sessions, and six special sessions focused on applying Sun Tzu's wisdom to contemporary civilization coexistence and cultural values. Harold Raugh, vice president of the International Commission of Military History, highlighted how the complex, interdependent global landscape calls for effective use of statecraft to achieve political objectives. He underscored the increasing relevance of Sun Tzu's concepts of "Cautious War" and "Defeating the enemy without fighting" in modern diplomacy, asserting that such strategies are essential for preventing conflict. Experts discuss how China has been applying these principles in sensitive geopolitical contexts, particularly with countries involved in maritime disputes. Yang Xiao, deputy director of the Institute of Maritime Strategy Studies, elaborated on how conflict resolution has primarily relied on negotiation and diplomacy rather than military action, contributing to regional stability. Participants in the symposium reflected on the notion that the Art of War can also symbolize the principles of avoiding conflict, as illustrated in the Global Security Initiative proposed by China, advocating for constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes. The event concluded with hopes for broader adherence to these principles to promote lasting global peace.