U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and China’s Defense Minister Admiral Dong Jun held a video conference to discuss bilateral defense relations and security issues globally and regionally. Austin highlighted the ongoing efforts to maintain open military communication channels between the two nations, building on recent high-level discussions. He stressed the importance of adhering to international laws regarding navigation freedoms, particularly in the South China Sea, and expressed concerns over Russia’s actions in Ukraine and provocations from North Korea. Austin reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the one China policy, emphasizing peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The discussions are a continuation of the diplomatic engagements following meetings between the leaders of the two nations.–News Desk