October 31, Kuala Lumpur: On the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun met with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for a bilateral meeting aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and stability in defense relations.
During the talks, Minister Dong noted that the recent successful meeting between the leaders of China and the United States in South Korea had provided strategic guidance for maintaining stable and constructive development in bilateral relations. He emphasized that the two countries are capable of achieving mutual success and shared prosperity if they remain committed to cooperation and dialogue.
Dong underscored that the defense establishments of both nations should take concrete steps to implement the consensus reached by their leaders, play a demonstrative and leading role in high-level strategic communication, and strengthen policy-level exchanges to build trust and dispel misunderstandings. He also urged expanding positive interactions between front-line officers and service members to explore effective ways for the two militaries to coexist peacefully.
“On the basis of equality, respect, peaceful coexistence, and mutual assistance,” Dong said, “it is possible to establish a stable and positive relationship between the two armed forces.”
Addressing the Taiwan question, the Chinese defense minister stressed that reunification across the Taiwan Strait is an irreversible historical trend. He urged the United States to act prudently in its words and deeds regarding Taiwan and to take a clear stand against any form of “Taiwan independence.” Dong reiterated that China would resolutely safeguard its national security interests while continuing to pursue peaceful development.
He expressed hope that the United States would translate its stated position of not seeking to contain China and not desiring conflict into concrete actions, and work with China to contribute positively to regional and global peace and security.
The two defense chiefs also exchanged views on other issues of mutual concern during the meeting.
Source: Cai–Alim–Wang Haiman, China Media Group.