US defence secretary dismisses imminent conflict concerns with China

US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has expressed his belief that a conflict between the United States and China, including over Taiwan, is neither imminent nor inevitable.

This statement was made following the US-Australian “two plus two” format talks, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

During a press conference in Annapolis, Maryland, Austin emphasized, “As I have stated many times, I do not think that a conflict with China is imminent or inevitable.”

He refrained from commenting on recent remarks by Australian-American media mogul Rupert Murdoch, who suggested that the US might not provide military support to Taiwan if China attempts to reunify the island by force.

“I will certainly not comment on Mr. Murdoch’s analysis, his statement,” Austin noted.

He further assured, “We will continue to work with allies and partners to ensure that we move in the right direction. That is, to greater stability and security.”

The US severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1979 and established them with China. While proclaiming a "one China" policy, Washington at the same time continues to maintain contacts with the Taipei administration. The US is Taiwan's main arms supplier. The Chinese Foreign Ministry estimates that the total amount of US military supplies to the island has exceeded $70 billion over the years.