BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Thursday pledged greater efforts to safeguard world peace at the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum. "In a time full of challenges, cooperation is the best choice," Dong said at the forum. The Chinese People's Liberation Army stands ready to defeat any secessionist plot of Taiwan separatist forces, and will foil any military interference from external forces, Dong added. Under the theme "Upholding International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development," the forum pools together more than 1,800 official representatives, scholars and observers from over 100 countries, regions and international organizations. During the forum, participants focus on issues such as working together to uphold the victorious outcome of the World Anti-Fascist War and the post-war international order, as well as exploring effective ways to resolve conflicts.