Last week, Shanghai hosted the North Pacific Coast Guard Forum's week-long senior officials meeting, marking a milestone in maritime cooperation.
Over 80 representatives from member agencies—including the Canadian Coast Guard, the Japan Coast Guard, the South Korea Coast Guard, the Border Service of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, the United States Coast Guard, the China Coast Guard, and the Maritime Safety Administration of the People's Republic of China—converged to address shared challenges at sea.
For many delegates, this was the first in-person summit since 2020. Zhang Yahong, vice mayor of Shanghai and director of the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau, welcomed guests at the opening reception, while Counselor Liu Qian of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs delivered closing remarks at the farewell dinner.
Tackling everything from illegal migration to drug trafficking, the forum zeroed in on:
- Combating transnational maritime crimes
- Enhancing law enforcement cooperation and joint operations
- Strengthening real-time information sharing
- Advancing marine environmental protection efforts
- Building capacity through targeted training
Delegates reached a preliminary consensus on a cooperation plan for the coming year, laying the groundwork for safer, more stable waters. These outcomes signal a stronger regional alliance, benefiting global supply chains, coastal communities, and travelers alike.
The forum concluded with the China Coast Guard officially handing over the forum flag to the Border Service of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation, confirming Russia as the host for the next meeting.
As these coast guards return home, their renewed partnership charts a clear course toward shared security, environmental stewardship, and resilience across the North Pacific.
Reference(s):
North Pacific coast guards conclude cooperation meeting in Shanghai
cgtn.com
