Beijing Hosts US Congressional Delegation
Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun met with a bipartisan delegation of U.S. lawmakers in Beijing on Monday, September 22, 2025. The delegation, led by Congressman Adam Smith, the ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, engaged in discussions aimed at fostering improved military relations between the two global powers. This visit marks the first time members of the U.S. House of Representatives have visited China since 2019.
Call for Constructive Military Ties
During the meeting, Defence Minister Dong Jun urged the U.S. to adopt 'constructive and pragmatic measures' to enhance military-to-military relations. He stressed the importance of promoting 'stable, healthy and sustainable development' and ensuring 'smooth military communication channels' between the two nations' armed forces. Dong also expressed his hope that the U.S. Congress members would 'exclude disruptive measures' and 'overcome interference and restrictive factors' to contribute positively to the bilateral relationship.
US Lawmakers Emphasize Open Communication
Congressman Adam Smith echoed the sentiment for better engagement, stating his 'deep concern' that the two militaries do not communicate more, especially while operating globally. He highlighted the delegation's desire for 'open lines of communication' to address shared interests in peace and security, acknowledging that despite disagreements, open discussions are crucial for resolving differences. Dong, in turn, expressed hopes that the visit would help the U.S. better understand China and its military.
Broader Diplomatic Context
The meeting occurred within a broader diplomatic push to stabilize Sino-U.S. relations. The congressional delegation also met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Vice-Premier He Lifeng. He Lifeng called for stable and sustainable economic and trade ties, noting that recent phone talks between the leaders of both nations had provided strategic guidance for bilateral development. Military communications between China and the U.S. were suspended for over a year following Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August 2022, but were officially restored in November 2023. Earlier in September 2025, Dong Jun had a call with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and in May 2024, he met with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the Shangri-La Dialogue. Just days prior to the meeting with the U.S. lawmakers, Dong Jun delivered remarks at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, where he criticized 'hegemonic logic and acts of bullying' in veiled references to the United States and warned against a 'Cold War mentality.'
5 Comments
Katchuka
This meeting changes nothing. China's aggressive stance remains unchanged.
BuggaBoom
Diplomacy is always better than silence, but given China's consistent push for global influence, these meetings could also be a tactic to buy time or gain leverage. The US needs to negotiate from a position of strength.
Bermudez
Another photo op. China will continue its expansion regardless of these 'talks'.
Coccinella
Good to see both sides talking. Diplomacy is always the best path forward.
Mariposa
Good that they're talking to avoid conflict, yet the underlying issues like Taiwan and trade imbalances remain unaddressed. These meetings are a start, but far from a solution.