China urges U.S. to respect core interests as defense chiefs hold video call

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun stated on Tuesday that China and the United States should respect each other's core interests during a video call with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

Dong told Hegseth during the call, which the latter requested, that both sides should adopt an open attitude, keep communication and engagement active, and develop a military-to-military relationship grounded in equality, respect, peaceful coexistence, and steady, positive growth.

Dong warned that any efforts to support "Taiwan independence" through force or to use the Taiwan question to contain China, as well as any interference, will be firmly thwarted.

China is committed to working with regional countries to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea and firmly opposes infringements and provocations by certain countries or deliberate attempts by external forces to stir up trouble, he said.

Dong said that China remains committed to its own development and strongly defends its legitimate rights and interests. "Containing, deterring, or interfering with China will absolutely lead nowhere."