China's Minister of National Defense, Dong Jun, conveyed to his United States counterpart that the principle of "no conflict and no confrontation" serves as a shared understanding and a fundamental boundary for both nations and their respective militaries. These remarks were made during a video conversation on Tuesday with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, initiated by the latter.
The Chinese Ministry of National Defense characterized the discussion as "candid, pragmatic, and constructive." Minister Dong emphasized the significance that the heads of state of both countries place on the military-to-military relationship. He urged both sides to adhere to the agreements reached by the presidents to foster military exchanges. He underscored the importance of adjusting perspectives strategically, accurately defining the nature of the military relationship, and cultivating a relationship founded on equality, respect, peaceful coexistence, and consistent, positive progress.
Furthermore, Minister Dong highlighted that the principle of no conflict and no confrontation represents not only common ground but also a crucial bottom line for both sides. He advocated for maintaining openness, strengthening communication, and injecting "positive elements and substantive content" into the relationship to provide greater stability for the development of China-US relations.
Minister Dong also stated that both sides should respect each other's core interests. He emphasized that the complete reunification of China is an irreversible historical trend and that any attempts to use force to support "Taiwan independence" or to use Taiwan to contain China "will be thwarted."
He also stated that China is committed to working with regional countries to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea, while resolutely opposing infringements and provocations by "certain countries" and deliberate disruptions by "external powers."
Minister Dong affirmed that China remains focused on its own development while firmly defending its legitimate rights and interests, stressing that efforts to contain, deter, or interfere with the country are "absolutely unworkable." The two defense chiefs also discussed other issues of mutual interest, according to the ministry.
5 Comments
Eugene Alta
This is just China's way of trying to control the narrative. They want to be seen as peacekeepers, but their behavior suggests otherwise.
BuggaBoom
The constant refrain about external powers is just a deflection from their expansionist policies.
Katchuka
This is a positive step. Communication is key to avoiding miscalculations and conflict.
Raphael
China is right to emphasize its complete reunification. This is something their country has set as their fundamental direction.
Leonardo
Using Taiwan as a red line is a clever tactic. It forces the US and others into a difficult position.