Archive · 2 Nov 2025
US and China Agree to Establish Direct Military Communication Channels
The top defense officials from the United States and China, Mr. Hegseth and Admiral Dong Jun, met and decided to set up a direct phone line between their militaries.
This is like having a direct line to talk things out so small misunderstandings don't turn into big fights.
Mr. Hegseth said that even though there are disagreements, like about rules in the South China Sea, the relationship between the two countries is currently very good.
He also encouraged other countries in the region to be strong and prepared to protect themselves.
This new communication line is meant to help keep things peaceful, especially in areas where there are ongoing disputes.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun agreed to establish direct military communication channels.
The agreement aims to foster peace, stability, and good relations between the US and China.
Hegseth stated that bilateral ties between the US and China have 'never been better'.
Hegseth previously urged ASEAN nations to counter China's 'destabilising' actions and territorial claims in the South China Sea.
China has rejected US criticism of its maritime conduct, accusing Washington of interfering and provoking tensions.
- Who
- US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun
- What
- Agreed to establish direct military communication channels between the US and China, aiming to foster peace and stability.
- When
- Discussions held late Saturday, announcement made Sunday.
- Where
- Malaysia, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defense Ministers' meeting.
- Why
- To de-escalate potential conflicts and prevent disagreements from escalating, while also addressing maritime disputes in the South China Sea.
US Perspective (Hegseth)
China's Stated Position
US-China Bilateral Relations
US Perspective (Hegseth)
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that relations between the US and China have 'never been better' and that establishing direct military channels is a positive step for peace and stability.
China's Stated Position
China's Defence Ministry (mentioned in context, not directly in this article but relevant to the interaction) sees value in a military-to-military relationship based on equality, respect, and peaceful coexistence. The article also notes China rejecting US criticism.
South China Sea
US Perspective (Hegseth)
Hegseth criticized China's 'sweeping territorial and maritime claims' and 'destabilising' actions, urging ASEAN nations to strengthen defenses and develop shared maritime surveillance.
China's Stated Position
China rejected US criticism, accusing Washington of interfering in regional affairs and provoking tensions through its military presence.
- US Defense Secretary
- Pete Hegseth
- Chinese Counterpart
- Admiral Dong Jun
- Meeting Location
- Malaysia (on the sidelines of ASEAN Defense Ministers' meeting)
- Key Agreement
- Establishment of direct military communication channels between the US and China.
- US Stance on Bilateral Ties
- Described by Hegseth as 'never been better'.
- Hegseth's Warning to ASEAN
- Urged ASEAN nations to strengthen maritime forces to counter China's 'destabilising' actions in the South China Sea.
- China's Stated Position on Relations
- Sees value in a military-to-military relationship based on equality, respect, and peaceful coexistence.
Sources
US slams Beijing’s Scarborough Shoal claim, urges ASEAN to stand firm against China’s ‘destabilising’ actions
US urges ASEAN to be firm in countering China in the South China Sea
Hegseth unleashes diatribe over China's activities in South China Sea, calls for concerted efforts
US urges ASEAN to be firm in countering China in South China Sea
Are US-China ties finally thawing? Hegseth says relations never been better, announces opening new military channel
US, China agree to set up military channels 'to deconflict': Hegseth says ties have 'never been better'
