Standoff Over Taiwan: Why China's Defense Minister Snubbed US Meeting

China's defense ministry did not meet with the U.S. counterpart due to disagreement over U.S. policies on Taiwan. The decision not to engage was labeled as the U.S. fault, with China urging policy corrections for future military talks. The U.S. remains a key supporter of Taiwan.

In an apparent diplomatic snub, China's defense ministry has attributed the cancellation of a meeting with the U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to enduring tensions over Taiwan. The American request to meet was declined by China's Defense Minister Dong Jun during a significant gathering of Southeast Asian defense ministers in Laos.

This decision not to engage with the U.S. is being cast by China as a consequence of American policies deemed detrimental to Beijing's interests, particularly concerning Taiwan. A spokesperson for China's defense ministry criticized the U.S. for failing to respect China's core interests while simultaneously seeking military engagements.

Amid these heightened tensions, the path forward remains uncertain. While the U.S. remains Taiwan's most critical international ally, supplying arms and support despite no formal diplomatic bonds, both nations underscore the need for sustained communication channels to address shared concerns over escalating regional tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)