Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe, in a telephone conversation with his American counterpart Mark Esper, urged the United States to stop risky actions to prevent an escalation in the region. This was announced on Thursday, August 6, by TASS, citing China Central Television.
Fenghe demanded that the American side strengthen measures to control and prevent dangerous situations at sea.
Esper, in turn, said that there is tension in relations between the United States and the PRC at the moment, and called for maintaining dialogue and consultations between the leaders of the armed forces of the two countries to maintain control in case of crisis situations.
Earlier in the day, Esper said China’s policies had become more aggressive and required a tough response. In particular, he noted that the competition with Beijing is not limited to the Indo-Pacific region, but exists in all parts of the world.
A few days ago, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that China is conducting espionage operations in the American establishment and business. At the same time, at the end of July, he noted that the course of toughening the approach to the PRC is suitable for all allies.
On July 21, the United States demanded that the Chinese diplomatic mission in Houston be closed within three days. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused China of stealing American intellectual property on a large scale. In response, Beijing demanded that Washington close the consulate general in Chengdu.