China-US tension over Taiwan, Beijing: 'Using it to contain us will not help'

Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun held a video call with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday, "at the latter's request". Dong, in the Xinhua news agency report, stressed the importance of maintaining "open dialogue" and building "a relationship between the two armies based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and stability". At the same time, the minister reiterated China's "firm opposition" to any attempt to "use Taiwan to contain China" or to "support Taiwan independence by force", warning that such actions "are bound to fail".

The Chinese side is committed to working with countries in the region to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea and strongly opposes violations and provocations by some countries, as well as deliberate instigation by countries outside the region, Dong added. We will continue to focus on our development, resolutely defending our legitimate rights and interests, and any attempts to contain, deter or interfere with China will be absolutely futile, Dong concluded.