A Chinese defense representative criticized the United States for allegedly using the Shangri-La Dialogue to sow discord and pursue its self-serving interests. Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, responded to remarks made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during the recent 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, labeling them as steeped in hegemonic thinking and Cold War attitudes.
Zhang expressed that Hegseth’s comments severely misrepresented China’s positions and undermined regional efforts for prosperity and stability, asserting that such actions represent an egregious violation of China’s sovereignty. He articulated a strong disapproval of the U.S.’s unilateral approach, which he claimed has sparked global tensions through trade wars and military buildups in the Asia-Pacific region.
Furthermore, he reiterated that the Taiwan issue is an internal matter for China, dismissing any U.S. comments on it as extraneous and aimed at containing China. He asserted that the Chinese military would protect its national sovereignty and territorial integrity vigorously.
In the context of the South China Sea, Zhang reaffirmed China’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and collaborative regional efforts to maintain maritime security. He criticized U.S. tactics that seek to instigate chaos in the area, underscoring China’s role as a promoter of peace and development in the Asia-Pacific.
Ultimately, he stated that China is dedicated to fostering a collaborative future marked by stability and prosperity for the region.
Source: news.cgtn.com
