27th Parliamentary-Intelligence Security Forum – Opening remarks
Matt Pottinger, former U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor, delivered a recorded message to the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum, thanking Robert Pittenger for his leadership in convening lawmakers from nearly 100 countries to address pressing security and technology challenges.
Pottinger argued that today’s global threats require candid analysis and coordinated action, identifying the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) as a central destabilizing force. He accused Beijing of undermining global health through its handling of the COVID-19 outbreak, engaging in unfair economic practices, backing authoritarian regimes, expanding military ambitions particularly regarding Taiwan and conducting widespread influence and information operations abroad.Drawing on statements by Xi Jinping, Pottinger contended that the CCP seeks to reshape the international order, promote authoritarian governance models, and pursue a prolonged strategic struggle with democratic nations. He described what he characterized as “dual messaging,” contrasting China’s public diplomatic language with internal party directives.
He outlined several recommendations for democratic nations: speak openly about actions that undermine sovereignty; impose meaningful costs for harmful behavior; strengthen coordinated military deterrence; limit China’s access to sensitive technology, capital, and data; counter disinformation and influence operations, particularly online; and protect the rights and freedoms of Chinese citizens living abroad while distinguishing clearly between the CCP and the Chinese people. He concluded by urging stronger cooperation among sovereign democracies to safeguard global health, prosperity, security, and liberty through sustained vigilance and collective resolve.
