US and Chinese Militaries Hold Security Consultations in Hawaii, Emphasizing Communication to Avoid Miscalculation

Central News Agency, Taipei, June 1. According to Xinhua, the US and Chinese militaries held the 2026 'US-China Maritime Military Safety Consultation Mechanism Working Group Meeting' in Hawaii from May 28 to 29. Both sides engaged in 'candid and constructive' exchanges on the current maritime and air security situation, noting that communication helps avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations. However, China reiterated its firm opposition to any actions that endanger China's sovereignty and security under the name of 'freedom of navigation and overflight.' According to the report, the two sides, guided by the consensus on 'building a constructive strategic stability relationship,' conducted exchanges based on equality and respect. They evaluated the implementation of the 'Rules of Behavior for Safety of Air and Maritime Encounters' since the 2025 meeting and discussed measures to improve maritime military safety. Both sides agreed that effective communication helps frontline troops perform tasks more professionally, enhances mutual understanding, and avoids miscalculations. However, China stated its firm opposition to any 'infringement and provocation' or 'close-in reconnaissance' against China under the guise of 'freedom of navigation.' China will continue to 'firmly safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and maintain regional peace and prosperity' in accordance with the law. (Editors: Chiu Kuo-chiang / Chen Cheng-kung) June 1, 2025.