China’s Response to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s Remarks

In a formal statement issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Beijing criticized US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for disregarding the regional calls for peace and development, while lauding bloc confrontations reminiscent of Cold War dynamics. The statement accused Hegseth of maligning China with incendiary rhetoric and falsely labeling the nation as a ‘threat’. It noted, “These comments are filled with provocation and aim to sow discord. China opposes and condemns such actions.”

The statement further emphasized China’s strong objections towards the US, stating: “No nation is more deserving of the label ‘hegemonic power’ than the United States. The US is a destabilizing force in the Asia-Pacific, undermining peace and stability. By deploying offensive armaments in the South China Sea and perpetuating tensions, the US is turning the region into a powder keg, causing deep concern among neighboring countries.”

“The US Should Not Exploit the Taiwan Issue Against China”

The statement underscored that Taiwan is an internal matter for China, warning, “The US should abandon any notion of using the Taiwan issue as leverage against China and should refrain from playing with fire in this matter.” Highlighting that freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea has not been a contentious issue, the statement reaffirmed China’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and maritime rights, in accordance with international laws and regulations. It also reiterated China’s dedication to resolving disputes with relevant nations through dialogue and consultation.

Additionally, the statement urged the United States to respect the efforts of regional countries to maintain peace and stability, and to cease actions that deliberately undermine the tranquility and escalate tensions by provoking conflict and confrontation.

Hegseth’s Comments on China

During his address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a premier security forum in the Asia-Pacific held in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth encouraged allies and defense partners in the Indo-Pacific to strengthen collective deterrence against China. He asserted that China aspires to become a dominant power in Asia, seeking control over the region’s most dynamic and vital zones. Hegseth accused China of massive military buildup, exhibiting intentions to employ military force, including gray area tactics and hybrid warfare.

He further accused China of illegally seizing and militarizing reefs and islets in the South China Sea, infringing on neighboring countries’ sovereignty, obstructing freedom of navigation and overflight, and demonstrating a clear intention to invade Taiwan. “The threat posed by China is real and could become urgent at any time,” Hegseth warned. “It should be evident to all that Beijing is preparing to use military force to alter the balance in the Indo-Pacific. China is unequivocally indicating its desire to fundamentally change the status quo in the region.”

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