US and Chinese Defense Chiefs Discuss Tensions in Landmark Meeting

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met with Admiral Dong Jun of China in Singapore to discuss U.S.-China defense relations and regional security. Austin emphasized the importance of open military communication, expressed concerns over China's activities around Taiwan, and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the one China policy. He also highlighted the need for freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and discussed China's support for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict. Future engagements between U.S. and Chinese defense officials were also planned.