Defense minister talks South China Sea issue with US counterpart

China's Defense Minister Dong Jun told the United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin that the Philippines' "perfidy" regarding the South China Sea issue is closely linked to the support of external forces, a spokesperson said on Friday.

On Friday afternoon, Dong held talks with Austin on the sideline of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Following the meeting, Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian revealed more details about the defense chiefs' talks in a news conference.

Regarding the South China Sea issue, Dong stressed that the Philippines' "perfidy" and provocation in issues including the Ren'ai Reef, is closely related to incitement and support by external forces, according to the spokesman.

The minister highlighted that the US deployment of intermediate-range missiles in the Philippines under the pretext of military exercises has posed a substantial threat to regional security, which China firmly opposes.

Dong emphasized that China remains committed to resolving differences through equal consultation based on adherence to commitments, but will not tolerate actions that escalate provocations.