On November 9, 2018, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis met with Director of the Office of Foreign Affairs of the Central Commission of the Communist Party of China Yang Jiechi and State Councilor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe for the second U.S.-China Diplomatic and Security Dialogue. The two sides had candid and in-depth conversations about key diplomatic and security issues. They reaffirmed that the U.S.-China Diplomatic and Security Dialogue could be a constructive platform that produces meaningful results.
U.S.-China Relations: The United States highlighted President Trump’s vision for a constructive, results-oriented U.S.-China relationship based on fairness and reciprocity. Both sides committed to coordinate on resolving differences and cooperate on common goals. Both sides will be preparing for the success of the planned meeting between Presidents Trump and Xi at the G20 summit in Argentina.
Strategic Security and Mil-Mil Relations: The United States and China recognized that the U.S.-China military-to-military relationship could be a stabilizing factor for the overall bilateral relationship, and committed to a productive mil-mil relationship. The two sides reaffirmed the importance of improving communication mechanisms to reduce the risk of misunderstanding between the two nations’ militaries. Both countries seek to maintain communication on implementing existing Confidence Building Measures and developing a military-to-military Crisis Deconfliction and Communication Framework. The two sides decided to deepen engagement to advance their shared commitment to the nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. The United States and China committed to convene consultations on cyber and space security, and deepen communication on nuclear and strategic issues.
North Korea: Both sides emphasized their continued commitment to achieving the final, fully verified denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, as committed to by President Trump and Chairman Kim. The United States and China committed to continue coordination and to fully, strictly implement the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
Regional Security: Both sides acknowledged their mutual interest in Afghanistan’s stability, committed to work together on a political settlement to end the conflict, and supported an Afghan-led peace process with direct negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban. The United States raised the threat posed to regional stability by Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, support for terrorist organizations, and other malign behavior. Both sides intend to continue consultations on topics related to Iran.
South China Sea: The two sides committed to support peace and stability in the South China Sea, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea in accordance with international law. Both sides committed to ensure air and maritime safety, and manage risks in a constructive manner. The United States discussed the importance of all military, law enforcement, and civilian vessels and aircraft operating in a safe and professional manner in accordance with international law. The United States called on China to withdraw its missile systems from disputed features in the Spratly Islands, and reaffirmed that all countries should avoid addressing disputes through coercion or intimidation. The United States remains committed to fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows.
Taiwan: The United States reaffirmed its commitment to the U.S. One China policy, based on the Taiwan Relations Act and the three joint communiques, and called on China to restore cross-Strait stability and respect Taiwan’s international space. The United States opposes unilateral actions by any party aimed at altering the status quo, including any resort to force or coercion.
Xinjiang: The United States raised concerns about China’s lack of adherence to its international obligations and commitments on human rights and religious freedom. China’s campaign of repression in Xinjiang undermines human rights and regional security.
U.S. Institutions and Citizens: The United States urged China to respect the autonomy of U.S. academic, political, media, and other institutions. The United States also reiterated the importance of fair and transparent treatment of U.S. citizens in China, including by raising concerns about China’s use of exit bans.
Counternarcotics: Both sides discussed their plans to enhance cooperation in combating drugs. The U.S. side stressed the importance of China controlling all types of fentanyl.
Source: U.S. Department of State