US defence secretary and Chinese counterpart hold first talks since 2022
US China
In a first since 2022, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had a telephone conversation with Chinese Admiral Dong Jun on Tuesday (April 16).
US Defence Secretary and his Chinese counterpart talked about “defence relations” and international security concerns ranging from North Korea's recent provocations to Russia's war with Ukraine.
According to the Pentagon, Austin and Chinese Admiral Dong Jun spoke about "defence relations" and international security concerns ranging from North Korea's recent provocations to Russia's unjustified conflict in Ukraine. "Respect for high seas freedom of navigation as guaranteed under international law, especially in the South China Sea," was another point made by the US Defense Secretary.
Conversely, Beijing said that it would not hesitate to employ force to get access to the South China Sea and seize control of Taiwan. China has employed underwater barriers, a military-grade laser, and collision and ramming methods to thwart Philippine patrol and resupply operations amid escalating tensions with the Philippines.
A senior defence official, ahead of the talks, said the call between Austin and Dong was an “important step” in keeping lines of communication open between the two military powers.
)
Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death: Bangladesh tribunal finds ex-PM guilty of crimes against humanity over student protest crackdown
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death: What are the five charges against the ex–Bangladesh PM?
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
'Day vs Night': When is the best time to fill petrol in your car?
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
From Tokyo to Delhi: The 7 most populated cities on Earth in 2025 — Check the full list
)
Delhi blast: Over 2,000 Kashmiri students, tenants questioned, 13k CCTV footage scanned
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
Sheikh Hasina: The Iron lady who transformed Bangladesh’s political landscape — Know her complete Journey
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
Global food powerhouses: Top 10 countries with the best cuisines on the planet — India's rank will surprise you
)
‘Biased, politically motivated’: Sheikh Hasina issues first statement after Bangladesh court sentences her to death
)
Miss Israel vs Miss Palestine: What is the controversy all about surrounding two beauty contestants at an event in Thailand?
)
Saudi Arabia bus-tanker collision: At least 42 Indians feared dead as Umrah bus collides with diesel tanker near Medina
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
Meet top 5 batters fastest to 9000 runs in ODIs
)
Newlyweds stunned as Trump crashes Mar-a-Lago wedding, rants about getting into heaven. Watch video
)
Afghanistan dumps Pakistan trade amid conflict, turns to Iran and India
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
How does a 4,000 HP train engine work? Understanding thermodynamics of diesel locomotives
&im=FitAndFill=(700,400))
Charlie Kirk's murder case: Tyler Robinson secures a legal win! All about it..
)
'Troubles of Kashmir...' Mehbooba Mufti's shocking comments on Red Fort blast stirs row, draws firm rebukes
“These engagements provide us with opportunities to prevent competition from veering into conflict by speaking candidly about our concerns. That includes the People’s Republic of China's behaviour in the South China Sea, as well as the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait,” a senior defence official told reporters on condition of anonymity.
Dong, who has been China's minister of national defence since December, had never before talked to Austin before the call on Tuesday. The conversation between Austin and Dong is the latest in a string of recent discussions between US and Chinese defence officials. In December, US General C.Q. Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, talked with his Chinese military counterpart.
