This year's Shangri-La Dialogue saw a significant reduction in China's delegation, led by Major General Hu Gangfeng, with Defense Minister Dong Jun absent. This situation caught the attention of many observers. During the meeting, the Chinese side made rebuttals to U.S. statements but did not engage in bilateral communications, disappointing many attending countries.

Scholars indicate that the subdued nature of this delegation is closely related to the ongoing anti-corruption campaign within the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Several high-ranking officials, including former Defense Ministers Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, are under investigation, and since March, Vice Chairman He Weidong has also disappeared from public view. Additionally, the delegation was unable to hold any official press conferences, further highlighting their low-key presence.

At the closing of the conference, an anonymous insider informed the South China Morning Post that the Chinese side did not engage in off-the-record exchanges with any country. Hu Gangfeng challenged U.S. accusations in small group discussions but primarily reacted rather than taking the initiative to state their position. This shift reflects the current turmoil within the CCP and issues regarding the PLA's organizational structure.