The Chinese Ministry of Defense announced today, Monday, that China looks forward to cooperating with the United States based on mutual respect and non-confrontation, emphasizing that this is the correct and only choice for both sides.
According to a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Defense carried by Sputnik, commenting on China's international military cooperation strategy: "Sino-American relations are currently at a critical turning point, where cooperation between Beijing and Washington benefits both sides, while competition will harm both." It indicated that "cooperation is the correct and only option."
The statement continued, "Military relations are an important part of the overall relationship between the two countries... We hope that the United States will engage with China and faithfully implement the important consensus reached by the two leaders, adhering to the principles of non-conflict, non-confrontation, mutual respect, and mutually beneficial cooperation."
The Chinese defense highlighted that it relies on enhancing dialogue with the United States, expanding practical cooperation frameworks, and appropriately resolving disputes. The frequent sailing of American ships near the islands, which are occupied and controlled by Beijing in the sea, arouses China's anger. China asserts that its sovereignty cannot be challenged and accuses the United States of deliberately fueling tensions.
Earlier, a missile destroyer from the U.S. Navy passed through the South China Sea as part of a "freedom of navigation operation," according to the Seventh Fleet. The fleet's statement noted, "On February 5, the USS John McCain affirmed the rights and freedoms of navigation in the vicinity of the Paracel Islands. The freedom of navigation operation upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the seas recognized in international law."
