US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently had a teleconference call with China’s Minister of National Defense Adm. Dong Jun, marking their first at-length conversation since November 2022. During the call, they discussed U.S.-PRC defense relations, regional and global security issues, and emphasized the importance of respect for high seas freedom of navigation guaranteed under international law, particularly in the South China Sea. Austin also expressed concerns about Russia’s war on Ukraine and recent provocations from North Korea. Additionally, he reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to its one China policy guided by various agreements and reassured the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
Dong, who was appointed as China’s defense minister in December, previously served as a naval commander. The call between Austin and Dong was a result of the meeting between President Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in November, after months of strained silence between the two countries. This communication follows China’s rejection of a US proposal for Austin to meet his then-counterpart Li Shangfu at a security forum in Singapore. It also comes after US and Chinese military representatives met in Honolulu for the first time in years, indicating a commitment to reestablishing communication lines between the two nations.
US officials had previously noted an increase in unsafe behavior by Chinese pilots against US aircraft in the Pacific but have not observed such behavior since November. Instead, there has been coercive behavior towards the Philippines and in the maritime domain, particularly around Second Thomas Shoal. In response, Austin reiterated the United States’ commitment to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows. The conversation between Austin and Dong is seen as a positive step towards ongoing engagement between the two countries throughout the year.
The call between Austin and Dong is part of a series of engagements aimed at improving communication and managing tensions between the US and China. While the US remains concerned about regional security issues and provocations from countries like North Korea, both sides are committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region. By reaffirming their respective commitments to international law and existing agreements, they aim to prevent further escalation of conflicts and maintain a working relationship on key security issues. The ongoing dialogue between Austin and Dong suggests a willingness to address concerns and find common ground on mutual security interests.
The conversation between Austin and Dong is significant as it marks a renewed effort to improve US-China defense relations and address regional security challenges. By discussing key issues such as freedom of navigation, conflicts in Ukraine, and provocations in the Asia-Pacific region, both sides aim to prevent misunderstandings and reduce the risk of military confrontations. The commitment to ongoing communication and engagement suggests a potential for further collaboration on shared security concerns in the future. As both countries navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, dialogue and cooperation are crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
