Chinese Spokesman Criticizes U.S. for Using Shangri-La Dialogue to Incite Disputes

A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of National Defense issued a strong rebuke on Sunday, accusing the United States of routinely using the Shangri-La Dialogue as a platform to stoke disputes, incite confrontation, and pursue its own strategic interests in the region. Speaking in response to remarks made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Zhang Xiaogang denounced what he described as “entrenched hegemonic logic, bullying tactics, and Cold War mentality” contained within the U.S. official’s speech.

According to Zhang, the comments from the U.S. defense secretary amounted to a gross violation of China’s sovereignty and interests, a distortion of China’s policy positions, and a blatant disregard for joint efforts among regional countries to maintain prosperity and stability. “They severely deviate from the global aspiration for peace and development,” he stated, adding that China expresses grave dissatisfaction and resolute opposition to such rhetoric.

Zhang further asserted that the international community is keenly aware of the role played by the United States on the world stage. He pointed to Washington’s initiation of tariff and trade wars, which he said are motivated by selfish interests and have seen the imposition of high levies globally. The formation of exclusionary cliques and engagement in bloc confrontations have also become sources of concern among many countries, Zhang noted.

The defense spokesperson criticized the U.S. for intensifying military deployments across the Asia-Pacific, for interfering in other nations’ internal affairs, and for intentionally inciting tensions. “The facts have repeatedly proved that the U.S. is going against the tide of the times and acting unilaterally, which will only backfire on itself,” he warned.

On the Taiwan issue, Zhang emphasized that it remains a matter of China’s internal affairs, declaring that the U.S. has no right to make irresponsible remarks or use the issue as leverage to contain China. He reiterated that the Chinese People’s Liberation Army stands ready to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will firmly counter any “Taiwan independence” schemes and external interference. “Our determination is unwavering, and our capabilities and means are strong and reliable,” Zhang declared.

Turning to the South China Sea, Zhang stressed that the waterway is recognized internationally as one of the world’s busiest and safest shipping routes. He pledged China’s continued commitment to resolving differences with neighboring countries through dialogue and consultation, upholding territorial sovereignty and maritime rights according to international law, and building a future of peace, friendship, and cooperation in the region. Zhang accused the U.S. of deliberately attempting to sow instability in the South China Sea, stating that such actions pose the greatest threat to regional peace and stability.

Highlighting China’s overall approach, Zhang reaffirmed that the country has always served as a “guardian and promoter of peace and development” throughout the Asia-Pacific region. He indicated that China’s military will continue to work with other regional partners to oppose hegemonism, prevent the importation of geopolitical conflicts into the area, and resist any foreign attempts to create disorder.

Finally, Zhang underscored China’s dedication to the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, emphasizing Beijing’s commitment to implementing major global initiatives for peace, development, and cooperation. He concluded with a call for all nations to work together to sustain long-term peace, stability, and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific.