China’s foreign ministry has accused Washington of “vilifying” Beijing, responding to recent remarks by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who they claim is ignoring regional calls for peace.
The ministry’s statement follows Hegseth’s assertion that China poses an immediate threat, urging increased defense spending from US allies in the Indo-Pacific region.
The ministry stated that “Hegseth deliberately ignored the call for peace and development by countries in the region and instead touted a Cold War mentality of bloc confrontation, vilified China with defamatory allegations, and falsely labeled China a ‘threat’.”
During the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth accused China of seeking regional dominance and aiming to alter the status quo, also addressing Taiwan, accusing Beijing of planning an invasion.
The Chinese foreign ministry has labeled these comments as “deplorable” and divisive, asserting that the US, not China, is the true hegemonic power, undermining regional peace and stability.
The ministry responded to Hegseth’s remarks on Taiwan by reiterating that the issue is a Chinese internal matter and cautioned the US against using it as leverage against Beijing.
Taiwan remains a point of contention between the two nations. China seeks peaceful reunification but warns that a move towards formal independence could lead to conflict, alleging that elements within the US government are encouraging this outcome.
China has consistently criticized US-led military exercises in the Indo-Pacific, citing them as destabilizing and provocative regarding Taiwan.
Beyond geopolitical issues, the countries are also in disagreement over trade, with the US President blaming Beijing for America’s trade deficit.
In May, both countries agreed to suspend tariff increases for 90 days, while keeping a 10% duty on imports. Recently, Trump accused China of breaking this agreement.
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