US (Washington Insider Magazine)— U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III held a significant virtual meeting today with Chinese Defense Minister Adm. Dong Jun, marking their first direct engagement. Conducted via video teleconference from the Pentagon, the discussion addressed bilateral defense relations and pressing regional and global security concerns.
Focus on Indo-Pacific Security
Austin emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation in international waters, particularly in the contested South China Sea. He reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to operating within international law while ensuring regional stability. Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that Austin underscored adherence to the One China Policy, guided by the Three Joint Communiques, the Taiwan Relations Act, and the Six Assurances.
Addressing Global Challenges
The conversation extended beyond the Indo-Pacific, with Austin raising concerns about Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and North Korea’s recent provocations. Stressing the necessity of open communication, Austin highlighted the importance of maintaining military-to-military dialogue to reduce misunderstandings and enhance transparency.
Building on Recent Engagements
This meeting builds on a series of recent U.S.-China defense discussions. Since December 2023, senior officials from both nations have participated in high-level dialogues, including talks between Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., and PLA Gen. Liu Zhenli, as well as working-level meetings to ensure safe interactions between air and naval forces.
“The Department of Defense will continue active discussions with PRC counterparts to strengthen communication at multiple levels, aligning with the November 2023 agreement between President Biden and President Xi Jinping,” said Ryder.
This historic dialogue signals cautious progress in fostering stability amid ongoing global and regional tensions.
