US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin expressed his openness to further discussions with China after meeting with Chinese counterpart Dong Jun at a security forum in Singapore. Despite the main points of contention between the US and China, including Taiwan’s autonomy and the South China Sea, both defense chiefs emphasized the importance of dialogue in calming tensions and maintaining open communication channels.
Austin indirectly criticized countries involved in actions such as firing water cannons at Philippine vessels in the South China Sea, highlighting the significant differences between the two world powers. The US has been actively building alliances in the Indo-Pacific region, leading alliances like AUKUS and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue to counter China’s growing influence.
The United States views itself as a Pacific nation and is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the region. By strengthening its military relationships with like-minded partners and engaging in strategic dialogues, the US aims to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
