In a post on the X platform, Hegseth described the conversation, which took place in Kuala Lumpur on the sidelines of the summit of defense ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states, as “good and constructive”. He said he expressed concern about China's actions in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.
“We will continue talks with [chińską] People's Liberation Army on matters of mutual importance,” he wrote.
Hegseth stressed that “the United States is not seeking conflict,” but Washington “will continue to vigorously defend its interests and ensure its capabilities in the region.”
Improving US relations with China?
A day earlier, US President Donald Trump said that the topic of Taiwan was not discussed in his Thursday conversation with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in South Korea.
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What did Pete Hegseth say about US relations with China?
What Chinese actions make Hegseth concerned?
Is the United States seeking conflict with China?
How did the conversation between Hegseth and Dong take place?
The Pentagon has long been pushing for improved military communications with China, including greater transparency regarding the modernization of the army and the expansion of the nuclear arsenal.
Dong's direct meeting with Hegseth was preceded by a teleconference with their participation in September. The increased frequency of talks at the ministerial level may be interpreted as a signal of a gradual improvement in military relations between China and the US in order to reduce the risk of misunderstandings between these powers, analysts point out.
