US and Chinese Military Commanders Hold First Formal Talks in Years

US and Chinese military commanders held their first formal conversation in years, marking a significant step in renewing high-level military-to-military communications. Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, had a video teleconference with General Wu Yanan, Commander of the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Southern Theatre Command, on September 9.

According to a White House statement, the discussion was constructive and respectful, with both commanders exchanging views as experienced professionals. This conversation was a follow-up to the agreement made during a November 2023 meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where both leaders committed to resuming direct military communication between the US Department of Defense and the PLA.

During the call, Admiral Paparo emphasized the need for sustained communication between the US and Chinese military, stressing that dialogue between senior leaders can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce the risk of miscalculation. Citing recent unsafe interactions between Chinese forces and US allies, he urged the PLA to adhere to international laws and norms to ensure operational safety. Paparo also called on China to reconsider its use of aggressive tactics in the South China Sea and beyond.

Admiral Paparo expressed hope that this call would be the first of many, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue with Chinese military commanders. The call followed a visit by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to Beijing, where both nations announced plans for increased military communication, including a potential phone conversation between President Biden and President Xi in the near future.

In an August 29 meeting with General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Sullivan highlighted the shared responsibility of both countries to prevent competition from escalating into conflict. Both sides reaffirmed the need for regular military-to-military communication as part of broader diplomatic efforts to manage their relationship responsibly.