The U.S. Defense Department concluded its latest round of military-to-military talks with China over the weekend. The talks are part of ongoing efforts to maintain open communication with China to manage competition responsibly.
High-Level U.S. Delegation in Beijing
Michael S. Chase, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for China, Mongolia and Taiwan, led the U.S. delegation to Beijing. This meeting marks the 18th round of the Defense Policy Coordination Talks between the two countries. The talks represent a continuation of U.S. efforts to keep communication lines open with China. These lines were reestablished last year after being paused since 2021.
Military Talks Resumed After Two-Year Pause
Restarting these military talks was made possible in large part by President Joe Biden. Last November, during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in California, Biden secured China’s agreement to return to the talks.
Senior military officials from the United States and China picked up these conversations again at the Pentagon in January 2024. The most recent high-level military negotiations took place in September 2021.
U.S. Emphasises Open Communication
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has stressed the importance of maintaining communication at multiple levels. He conveyed this message during his first meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore in May.
These talks are part of the broader U.S. strategy to maintain clear communication with China in order to avoid misunderstandings and manage competition in a responsible way.
Regional Security Issues Addressed
Last week, the commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Navy Adm. Samuel Paparo, held a video call with China’s Gen. Wu Yanan. The two military leaders discussed various regional and global security concerns, including China’s support for Russia’s defense sector. This support has raised concerns in Europe and among transatlantic allies.
During these talks, Adm. Paparo emphasized the need for continued military dialogue. He also raised U.S. concerns over Chinese actions in the Indo-Pacific region.
U.S. Calls for Respect in the South China Sea
A senior U.S. defense official emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, citing ongoing harassment by Chinese forces. The U.S. condemned China’s aggressive actions against Philippine vessels operating legally in the region. The U.S. also reaffirmed its commitment to defending its Indo-Pacific allies, stressing the need to uphold international law and ensure stability in the region.
Taiwan, North Korea, and the Middle East Discussed
The U.S. delegation raised concerns about maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan remains a sensitive issue between the U.S. and China, with both sides expressing strong views.
In addition, U.S. officials discussed the growing threats from North Korea and urged China to use its influence to promote stability on the Korean Peninsula. The U.S. also encouraged China to play a positive role in reducing tensions in the Middle East.
Talks Reflect No Shift in U.S. Approach to China
Following the latest round of talks in Beijing, U.S. officials made it clear that these military discussions do not represent a shift in U.S. policy toward China. China is still viewed by the United States as a strategic rival.
As stated in the National Defense Strategy, China continues to be United States’ greatest threat, according to a top Defense Department official. The official added that China is the only U.S. competitor with both the intent and capability to challenge the rules-based international order, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
U.S. Vigilant of China’s Global Actions
While the U.S. seeks open communication, it remains cautious about China’s actions. The Defense Department stated that it is fully aware of China’s intentions and activities, both in the Indo-Pacific and globally.
The ongoing military talks aim to manage competition, prevent conflict, and ensure peace in the region. Both sides agreed on the need for continued dialogue to address ongoing challenges. The latest round of talks is a step toward responsible management of U.S.-China relations, even as competition between the two powers remains intense.
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