US Defense Secretary holds first conversation with Chinese Defense Minister since November 2022

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recent conversation with China’s national defense minister, Adm. Dong Jun, marks a significant step in improving communication between the U.S. and Chinese militaries. The hour-long call emphasized the importance of military-to-military dialogue and respect for freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the South China Sea.

This dialogue comes after a period of strained relations between the two countries, with military contact suspended in 2022 following political tensions. However, recent high-level meetings between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping have helped thaw relations, leading to Austin’s call with Adm. Dong.

The conversation also touched on other regional concerns, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, North Korea, and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The U.S. aims to prevent competition with China from escalating into conflict, particularly in light of recent aggressive behavior by Chinese vessels in the South China Sea.

Efforts to address these issues have included a recent meeting between U.S. and Chinese defense officials in Hawaii to discuss military incidents in the Pacific. This in-person meeting, the first since 2019, underscores the importance of direct communication in de-escalating tensions and promoting stability in the region.

Overall, Austin’s call with Adm. Dong represents a positive step towards improving U.S.-China relations and reducing the risk of conflict in the Indo-Pacific. As both countries navigate complex geopolitical challenges, open lines of communication and mutual respect remain crucial for maintaining peace and security in the region.