The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin III, and China’s Minister of Defense, Admiral Dong Jun, recently engaged in their first face-to-face talks in 18 months. The meeting took place in Singapore and was held against a backdrop of deep-seated distrust over various regional disputes, including Taiwan and the South China Sea.
This meeting comes after a series of discussions between Biden administration officials and Chinese counterparts on issues such as trade imbalances, technology restrictions, Chinese support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict, and other sources of tension. President Biden has emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication channels between the two countries to prevent potential military clashes.
However, the meeting between the defense chiefs was not seen as a negotiation for compromise but rather an opportunity to exchange well-established talking points. The military rivalry between the U.S. and China is rooted in longstanding disputes, particularly China’s claim to Taiwan and its assertive actions in the South China Sea.
Admiral Dong, who became defense minister late last year, is perceived as lacking the authority to make significant strategic decisions. The U.S. may simply want to demonstrate a willingness to engage in dialogue despite their differences.
The Pentagon has been focused on supporting Ukraine and managing risks in the Middle East, but China’s growing military power remains a significant challenge. Pentagon officials have expressed concerns about the aggressive behavior of the People’s Liberation Army towards American military vessels and aircraft in the region.
During the meeting, Mr. Austin may seek clarity on steps to avoid potential crises, including establishing a communication link between the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command. The U.S. has emphasized the importance of operating safely and responsibly in accordance with international law.
Despite the differences between the two countries, the meeting in Singapore represents another step in ongoing discussions. The willingness to engage in dialogue, even on challenging issues, may be a positive sign of progress in the complex relationship between the U.S. and China.
