An International Symposium course at the People’s Liberation Army National Defence University (PLA NDU) in Beijing, China was conducted with participants from 28 foreign countries including Australia.

CMDR Nick Hart, Director Personnel Policy Co-ordination Navy Personnel and Training, represented the Australian Defence Force and provided a presentation on Australia, plus a thesis on the impact of potential terrorism upon our region.

Attendance at the symposium was part of the bilateral program of Defence activities with China, and reciprocates a PLA Colonel attending the Australian Defence College.

CMDR Hart had a distinct advantage over other world participants, as he was one of the few with sound Chinese language skills.

This reflects the value the Defence Force places on advanced language and fluency skills, ensuring Australia is able to engage effectively with our regional neighbours.

CMDR Hart’s training and study in the Chinese language enabled him to effectively engage in discussions on military and strategic affairs. His linguist training was gained at the Australian Defence Force School of Languages, RAAF Williams, through an intensive 46-week language course plus a year of advanced studies in Hong Kong, China.

This enabled him to effectively engage in discussions on military and strategic affairs as most lectures were conducted in Chinese.

Additional skills and experience and a more comprehensive understanding of contemporary Chinese culture and thinking was gained from his role as Assistant Defence Attache in Beijing from 1998 to 2000.

‘One of the purposes of Defence’s participation was to promote understanding and exchange on strategic issues affecting the Asia-Pacific region and develop contacts with the PLA’

“The Symposium provides the opportunity to inform the PLA and regional countries on Australian strategic and defence policies, and facilitate frank yet friendly exchanges with many of our regional nations’ military officers,” CMDR Hart said.

The PLA conducted tours to Shenzen and Urumuqi, these field trips included exercises and activities being demonstrated at air, marine and army divisions.

“The course is ideal preparation for potential DA designates and of great value to any Defence personnel working on China issues,” CMDR Hart said.

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