According to Xinhua News Agency, on the evening of the 9th, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held a video call with U.S. Secretary of War, Hegeseth, upon request. The Taiwan Strait issue was one of the key topics. Dong Jun addressed the U.S. side, calling for mutual respect for each other’s core interests, stating that all schemes and interventions to “use force to aid Taiwan independence” or “use Taiwan to contain China” will be defeated. He emphasized that restricting, deterring, or interfering with China is absolutely unworkable.
Dong Jun said that an open-minded approach should be maintained to keep communication and exchanges ongoing, and to build a military-to-military relationship based on equality, respect, peaceful coexistence, stability, and positivity. Mutual respect for each other’s core interests is essential. Any attempts to “use force to aid Taiwan independence” or “use Taiwan to contain China” will be defeated.
Dong Jun stated that China is committed to working with regional countries to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea, and firmly opposes infringements, provocations by certain countries, and deliberate incitement by countries from outside the region. China always focuses on its own development and is determined to defend its legitimate rights and interests; restricting, deterring, or interfering with China is absolutely unworkable. The two sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual concern.
Regarding the video conversation between the Chinese and U.S. defense ministers, Pentagon spokesperson Parnell responded that U.S. Secretary of War Hegeseth made it clear that the United States has no intention of conflict with China, nor does it seek to overthrow or suppress China. However, he also stated frankly that the United States has vital strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and will resolutely safeguard these interests. The U.S. side said the two parties had a frank and constructive exchange of views and reached a consensus, agreeing to further dialogue in the future.