Exclusive: U.S. Sends Senior Defense Official to China Security Forum Amid Rising Tensions
By Idrees Ali and Laurie Chen
The United States is set to send Michael Chase, the deputy assistant secretary of defence for China, Taiwan and Mongolia, to China's top annual security forum in mid-September, a U.S. official revealed to Reuters.
This decision marks a significant escalation in U.S.-China military engagement, with Chase being a higher-ranking official compared to the representative sent last year. The move reflects the growing importance of deeper working-level dialogue between the two nations amidst escalating regional conflicts and increased military presence in East Asia.
Over 90 countries and international organizations are expected to participate in the forum, scheduled for September 12-14 in Beijing, as reported by Chinese state media.
Chase's participation aligns with past practices, as former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for China Chad Sbragia attended the same forum in 2019. This consistent engagement signifies the ongoing efforts to maintain diplomatic channels despite heightened tensions.
The U.S. seeks to address contentious issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea, areas where both countries have refused to compromise on their core interests. Recent talks between U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese officials did not result in any breakthrough agreements regarding the South China Sea.
Both sides have expressed concerns over each other's military activities in the region, with China criticizing U.S. deployments in the Asia-Pacific and arms sales to Taiwan, while the U.S. has raised alarms about China's actions in the South China Sea and its nuclear buildup.
Although official nuclear talks were put on hold by Beijing in protest against U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, there are plans for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command leaders to engage in discussions with their counterparts in China's southern theatre command soon.
Analysis:
The U.S. decision to send a high-ranking defense official to China's security forum signifies a strategic move to address ongoing tensions in the region. The dialogue aims to navigate contentious issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea while maintaining communication channels despite disagreements. The outcome of these discussions could impact regional stability and international relations, influencing global markets and economic dynamics. Investors should monitor developments closely for potential implications on geopolitical risk and market volatility.
