Chinese Spokesman Accuses U.S. of Using Shangri-La Dialogue to Incite Disputes

A senior spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense condemned what he described as *U.S. efforts to exploit the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore to create disputes and incite confrontation*. Speaking on Sunday, Zhang Xiaogang responded forcefully to recent remarks concerning China made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during the annual security summit.

Zhang characterized the U.S. official’s speech as being *saturated with entrenched hegemonic logic, bullying tactics, and Cold War mentality*. He stated that these comments not only violate China’s national sovereignty and interests but also distort its policy positions, *disregard the collective efforts of regional nations to promote peace*, and sharply deviate from the global aspiration for development and stability. “We express grave dissatisfaction and resolute opposition,” Zhang emphasized.

According to the spokesperson, the international community is keenly aware of the United States’ pattern of behavior. Zhang accused the U.S. of having initiated global trade wars, imposing tariffs unilaterally for its own benefit, and forming exclusive groupings that have caused unease across multiple countries. “It has strengthened military deployments in the Asia-Pacific, interfered in other nations’ internal affairs, and stoked tensions in the region,” he said.

*The facts have repeatedly demonstrated that these unilateral actions run counter to the tide of the times and will ultimately damage U.S. interests*, Zhang asserted. He warned that such behaviors are unsustainable and could backfire upon those who perpetuate them.

Addressing the Taiwan issue specifically, Zhang reiterated that Taiwan is *purely an internal matter for China* and insisted that the United States has “no right to make irresponsible remarks or use the question as a bargaining chip.” Zhang reaffirmed the position that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army remains committed to safeguarding China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and will decisively counter any separatist movement or external interference. “Our determination is unwavering, and our capabilities and means are strong and reliable,” he cautioned.

When questioned on the South China Sea, Zhang noted that the area remains *one of the world’s busiest and safest shipping lanes*. He stressed that China is committed to resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation, upholding sovereign and maritime rights in accordance with international law, and working with neighboring countries to ensure a peaceful and cooperative maritime environment. However, he cautioned that persistent U.S. interventions—through the formation of alliances and regional meddling—pose significant risks to ongoing peace and stability in the region.

In closing, Zhang emphasized China’s longstanding role as a “guardian and promoter of peace and development” in the Asia-Pacific. He asserted that the Chinese military stands ready to collaborate with regional partners to *oppose hegemonism and prevent the importation of geopolitical conflicts into the Asia-Pacific*. Reaffirming Beijing’s commitment to broader international cooperation, Zhang highlighted China’s aspiration to build a “community with a shared future for mankind” and contribute to sustained prosperity, peace, and stability throughout the region.