US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently had a teleconference call with China’s Minister of National Defense Adm. Dong Jun, marking their first call and Austin’s first conversation with his Chinese counterpart since November 2022. During the call, they discussed US-PRC defense relations, regional and global security issues, high seas freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and concerns about recent provocations from North Korea. Austin reiterated the United States’ commitment to the one China policy, guided by the Taiwan Relations Act, the Three US-China Joint Communiques, and the Six Assurances.
Dong, who was appointed as China’s defense minister in December, was a former naval commander. The call between Austin and Dong followed a meeting between President Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in November, which came after months of strained silence between the two countries. The call was not specifically planned for a certain duration but typically takes some time to schedule and prepare for on both sides. Additionally, it comes after a US proposal for a meeting between Austin and his then-counterpart Li Shangfu was rejected by China in 2023 at the Shangri-La Dialogue Security Forum.
Less than two weeks prior to the call between Austin and Dong, US and Chinese military representatives met in Honolulu for the first meeting of its kind in years after previous cancellations by China. This signals a commitment from China to reestablishing communication lines with the US. While there were concerns last fall regarding unsafe behavior by Chinese pilots against US aircraft in the Pacific, US officials stated that they have not seen such behavior since November. However, there has been coercive behavior from China towards the Philippines and in the maritime domain, particularly around Second Thomas Shoal.
During the call, Austin reiterated the United States’ commitment to flying, sailing, and operating safely and responsibly wherever international law allows. This commitment is important for maintaining peace and stability in the region. The conversation between Austin and Dong is seen as an important step in a series of engagements between the US and China, with more expected throughout the year. The focus on defense relations, regional security, and adherence to international law is crucial for maintaining positive relations between the two countries. Each side expressed their concerns and priorities during the call, highlighting the importance of ongoing dialogue and communication.
