Hegseth Affirms US Commitment to Vigorously Safeguard Its Interests in Talks with China’s Defense Chief

Share this @internewscast.com

During a dialogue on Friday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth conveyed to China’s defense minister a firm message that the United States is committed to protecting its interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

In discussions with Chinese Admiral Dong Jun, Hegseth underscored the necessity of preserving a balance of power in this strategically significant area. These talks occurred during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) national security summit in Malaysia.

Describing the meeting as “good and constructive,” Hegseth noted he raised “serious concerns” regarding China’s actions in the South China Sea and its stance on Taiwan. He shared these insights in a post on the social platform X.

Hegseth stated that while the U.S. is not seeking confrontation, it remains resolute in defending its interests and is prepared to maintain its capabilities in the region to ensure this.

In response, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense issued a statement expressing optimism about the potential for a stable and positive military relationship between the U.S. and China. However, the statement included a caution from Jun against American support for Taiwan’s independence.

The Trump administration removed language from the State Department website earlier this year stating that the U.S did not “support Taiwan independence.” The U.S. does not formally recognize Taiwan part of the “One China” policy as an independent state, it is seen as a major ally.

Hegseth has also previously expressed opposition to a possible takeover of Taiwan by China.

“There’s no reason to sugarcoat it, the threat China poses is imminent,” he said in a May during a defense conference held in Singapore.

The secretary added at the time that any move by Beijing against Taipei “would result in devastating consequences for the Indo-Pacific and the world.”

His hardline stance against China led to the country criticizing him for espousing a “Cold War mentality.” But, Hegseth has maintained that the U.S. will continue to support allies in the region and not let them be “subordinated or intimidated.”

Friday’s meeting between Hegseth and Jun follows a Sept. 9 video teleconference call between the two officials.It also came a day after President Trump met Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

During the meeting between the world leaders, the U.S. agreed to scale back some tariffs, among other deals.

Share this @internewscast.com

Facebook X Reddit Pinterest

Hegseth Affirms US Commitment to Vigorously Safeguard Its Interests in Talks with China’s Defense Chief

Up next

FBI Thwarts Halloween Attack Plot in Michigan: Multiple Arrests Made, Confirms Director Patel

Author

Internewscast

Tags

Share this @internewscast.com

Breaking: Arrest Made in Disturbing Whittaker Family Exploitation Case

Marion Police Chief Unveils Shocking Child Sex Crime Probe Linked to Ex-Substitute Teacher

Myanmar Challenges Genocide Allegations in Rohingya Case at UN’s Highest Court

ETSU Hosts Virtual Graduation for Ukrainian Student Pursuing Master’s Degree

Top-Secret Talks: CIA Director’s Unprecedented Meeting with Venezuela’s Acting President in Caracas

Unveiling the Impact: How Trump’s Policies are Reducing Sexual Violence Investigations in Education

Up-And-At-Em’ Organization Makes Generous Contribution to Local Schools

Bristol Man Arrested: Major Drug Bust Uncovered in Virginia Home

Greenlanders Share Their Thoughts on Trump’s Interest in Buying Their Arctic Home

Suspect in Charlie Kirk Case Seeks Judge’s Intervention to Disqualify Prosecutors

California Triumphs as Court Rejects Trump Administration’s Request for Voter Data

Tragic Incident: 70-Year-Old Woman Passes Away Following Revenge of the Mummy Ride at Universal Orlando

Representative Feenstra Proposes Legislation to Restrict International Money Transfers by Welfare Beneficiaries

Chaos Erupts in Aussie Boxing: Fans Hurl Cans as Tim Tszyu Labels Michael Zerafa a ‘Coward

Watch: Curious Cat Accidentally Ignites Kitchen Blaze by Activating Stove Burner

Tragic Incident: Migrant Worker Passes Away After Jumping from Moving Vehicle at Winery

Hegseth Affirms US Commitment to Vigorously Safeguard Its Interests in Talks with China’s Defense Chief

Up next

Author

Internewscast

Tags

Share this @internewscast.com

You May Also Like