US and China to Establish Military Channels to Avoid Conflict

• The United States and China have agreed to create direct military communication channels to prevent potential clashes and enhance stability in the Indo-Pacific. The decision was finalised in November 2025 during the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus held in Malaysia , where U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth met Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun . This marks one of the most significant confidence-building measures between the two militaries in recent years.

Focus on Deconfliction and Stability

• Secretary Hegseth stated that the initiative aims to ensure “misunderstandings or disagreements do not escalate into unintended conflict.” Both sides agreed that open communication is essential to manage risks in the Indo-Pacific, where tensions remain high. The dialogue focused on maritime safety, crisis management, and mechanisms to de-escalate incidents involving military vessels and aircraft.

Revival of Military Dialogue

• This agreement ends years of strained defence relations. Beijing had suspended military-to-military contacts in 2022 after then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan , which angered China. While limited exchanges resumed under the Biden administration in 2024, no formal communication mechanism had been restored until now. The new framework represents a significant step toward restoring military trust and transparency.

Regional Significance

• The move comes amid continued friction in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea , where Chinese vessels have repeatedly confronted U.S. and allied ships. Establishing communication channels is expected to reduce the risk of accidental collisions or escalation. Analysts say the agreement reflects a pragmatic effort by both nations to prevent crises that could destabilise the region. Hegseth described current ties as being in their “best phase ever,” crediting the Trump–Xi summit in South Korea for setting a constructive tone in bilateral relations.

Future Engagements and Outlook

• Both countries will hold follow-up meetings to define communication protocols and operational guidelines . China’s Defence Ministry said it seeks a relationship based on “equality, respect, and peaceful coexistence.” The initiative aligns with the U.S. Department of Defence’s forthcoming National Defence Strategy , which signals a policy shift from confrontation toward managed competition and cooperative stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Key Facts for Exams:

• Agreement signed: November 2025, Malaysia

• Event: ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus

• Military talks suspended since 2022 (Pelosi’s Taiwan visit)

• Key officials: Admiral Dong Jun and Secretary Pete Hegseth

• Aim: Prevent accidental conflict and enhance stability