Chinese military calls for 'open, pragmatic' cooperation with the U.S. side

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun on Tuesday said the militaries of China and the U.S. should explore ways to get along with each other and build "non-conflict and non-confrontation, open and pragmatic" cooperation.

Dong made the remarks while holding a virtual meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the latter's request, urging the two militaries to build up mutual trust on the basis of equality and respect, and to truly serve as a stable cornerstone for the development of relations between the two sides.

Noting that the two countries' presidents are committed to promoting the stabilization and improvement of bilateral relations, Dong told his counterpart that the military field is the key to ensuring the implementation of consensus reached by the two heads of state, stabilizing the development of relations between the two countries and preventing the occurrence of major crises.

Dong emphasized that the Taiwan question is at the core of China's interests, which will never be compromised, pointing out that the Chinese People's Liberation Army will never give in to "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and external connivance.

Noting that the current situation in the South China Sea is generally stable, and the countries in the region have the will, wisdom and ability to solve the problem, Dong urged the U.S. side to recognize China's firm position, respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the region, and take practical actions to safeguard regional peace and the stability of the relationship between the two militaries.

The two sides also exchanged views on other issues of common concern.

(Cover photo: National flags of China and the U.S. /CFP)