US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, during his participation at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, emphasized that Washington will not tolerate any "coercion and bullying" by China towards its allies and partners. Austin reiterated the US commitment to maintaining the status quo on Taiwan and expressed a preference for dialogue over conflict with Beijing, as reported by various sources.

He advocated for support for the US vision of a "free, open and secure Indo-Pacific within a world of rules and rights" to counter the increasing assertiveness of China in the region. Despite inviting China's minister of national defense, Gen Li Shangfu, for a discussion, he declined, though they did exchange handshakes before sitting at opposite sides of the same table during the conference's opening.

During the summit, Austin expressed deep concerns over China's unwillingness to engage more seriously in military crisis management, emphasizing the importance of talks to avoid potential conflicts. He emphasized the significance of open lines of communication between US and Chinese defense and military leaders to prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations.

In response, a senior Chinese military official, Lt Gen Jing Jianfeng, placed responsibility for the breakdown in dialogue with the US, citing the escalating sanctions on Chinese officials and the destabilization caused by the US military presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Lt Gen Jing Jianfeng reiterated China's commitment to developing military relations with the US and emphasized that their interactions and communication have never been suspended.

The US has been actively increasing its activities in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's extensive territorial claims. Austin stated the “US commitment to ensuring that every country can exercise lawful maritime activities and emphasized the importance of alliances and partnerships”.

Austin highlighted the “US's dedication to deterring North Korea's missile threat and China's claims on Taiwan”. He reaffirmed the “US's adherence to the one-China policy, which recognizes Beijing as the government of China but maintains informal relations with Taiwan, while categorically opposing unilateral changes to the status quo from either side.”

Austin reiterated, “the US does not seek conflict or confrontation but will not hesitate to stand against bullying or coercion. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and highlighted the dangers of big countries invading their peaceful neighbours”.

China strongly disagreed with Austin's assertion, “Beijing is unwilling to engage in military crisis management, with Lt Gen Jing Jianfeng emphasizing China's sovereignty over islands in the South China Sea and adjacent waters”.

The participation of China's defense minister, Gen Li Shangfu, during Austin's speech, was unclear, as he is currently under American sanctions imposed in 2018. These sanctions do not prevent official talks but restrict his business activities in the US.

Austin echoed the calls made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for China to engage in regular, direct communications to prevent any potential conflicts. He emphasized that responsible defense leaders should prioritize dialogue at all times.

Image source: The Guardian