Criticism and Disagreement among US and Chinese Officials: What is discussed at Shangri-La Dialogue-2023?

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Chinese military officials expressed strong criticism of the speech delivered by United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the Shangri-La Dialogue-2023 is being held in Singapore.

Austin emphasized the importance of open lines of communication and crisis management between the China and US to avoid conflict and promote stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

However, Chinese officials quickly responded, accusing Austin of making false accusations and disregarding China's core interests.

Concerns about Chinese Unwillingness to Engage:

The US Secretary of Defense expressed deep concerns regarding the People's Republic of China's unwillingness to engage in more serious discussions on crisis management mechanisms between the two powers.

He stressed that increased dialogue could prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations that may lead to a crisis or conflict.

Austin specifically pointed out risky intercepts of US and allied aircraft by Chinese planes in international airspace, stating that such behavior would not deter the US.

 

Response from Chinese Delegation:

In response to Austin's speech, Senior Colonel Tan Hefei, spokesperson for China's defense ministry, accused the US defense chief of making false accusations.

Another Chinese delegation member, Senior Colonel Zhao Xiaozhuo, stated that Washington should not dictate China's actions, emphasizing that the Chinese military's priorities are centered around safeguarding China's security and core interests.

Contention over Taiwan:

Lieutenant General Jing Jianfeng from China criticized Austin's references to Taiwan, asserting that there is only one China, and Taiwan is an integral part of Chinese territory.

Jing accused the US of undermining the one-China principle through increased exchanges with Taiwanese officials, condoning separatist activities, and selling advanced weapons to Taiwan.

Jing also emphasized the Chinese PLA Army's readiness to defend China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Strained US-China Relations:

The article highlights that relations between Beijing and Washington are currently at their lowest point in decades.

Disagreements range from issues of sovereignty regarding Taiwan to maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

Austin drew parallels to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the danger posed by big countries invading their peaceful neighbours.

He reiterated the US commitment to preserving the status quo in Taiwan and opposing unilateral changes from either side.

Call for Dialogue instead of Deterrence:

Secretary Austin emphasized that the US does not seek conflict or confrontation but is prepared to stand against bullying or coercion.

He stressed the need for dialogue between defense and military leaders, considering it a necessity rather than a reward.

Austin also mentioned the importance of strengthening partnerships and alliances in the region through military exercises and ensuring partners have the capability to deter aggression.

Chinese Perception of US Actions:

China perceives many US actions as attempts to contain its influence and encircle the country.

The strained US-China ties coincide with the ongoing summit, where tensions are rising.

The Chinese embassy in Washington questioned the sincerity and significance of communication, as the US continues to impose sanctions and take measures to restrict Chinese entities, including in the area of high-end microchips.

AUKUS and Beijing's Reaction:

The article mentions the recent announcement of the AUKUS pact between the US, United Kingdom, and Australia, which includes a significant submarine program.

While Austin claimed that AUKUS promotes stability and security, Beijing sees it as another attempt by the West to restrict China's growing global power.

Conclusive Flashpoints:

The speech delivered by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the Shangri-La Dialogue drew strong criticism from Chinese military officials.

The disagreements highlighted the lack of willingness to engage in crisis management discussions and reflect the strained relations between the US and China.

The article also points out China's concerns over US actions and alliances that it perceives as containment strategies.

The geopolitical tensions between the two countries continue to pose challenges to regional stability in the Asia Pacific.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)