US and Chinese Military Officials Meet for First Time in 2 Years: Talks Held
After US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in August 2022, where she claimed Taiwan as part of China, military communication between the US and China was suspended. For the first time in 2 years, American and Chinese military officials held talks to re-establish military communication between the two countries. As part of the meeting, US Indo-Pacific Commander Samuel Paparo and Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Commander Vu Yanan met via video conference.
HIGH-LEVEL MILITARY COMMUNICATION
The meeting is seen as a constructive step towards gradually re-establishing high-level military communication between the US and China, especially amid recent regional tensions, including Beijing’s actions in the South China Sea and towards Taiwan. The White House emphasized the importance of continuous communication between high-level military officials in clarifying intentions and reducing the risk of misunderstanding. Samuel Paparo, in his statement, referred to some recent uneasy interactions of the PLA with US allies and called on the PLA to “adhere to international laws and norms to ensure operational security.”
COMMON CONCERNS DISCUSSED
In a statement by the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, it was confirmed that the meetings took place, and both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on common concerns. During the meeting in Beijing between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Chinese President Xi Jinping’s military advisor, the decision to initiate military talks between the two countries was made.
The resumption of military communication between the US and China comes at a critical time when tensions between the two nations have been escalating due to various issues, including trade, technology, and human rights. Both countries have expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue and address mutual concerns through diplomatic channels.
The meeting between high-level military officials is a significant development in the efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the region. It reflects a commitment from both sides to maintain open lines of communication and seek peaceful resolutions to existing conflicts.
Moving forward, it will be essential for the US and China to continue engaging in constructive dialogue and building trust to avoid further misunderstandings and potential conflict. The resumption of military talks is a positive step towards fostering better relations between the two countries and ensuring peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region.