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Editorial | New US defence chief a believer in diplomacy
- It is no surprise that Mark Esper shares the hawkish views of leading White House figures towards China, but Beijing can take comfort in his belief that unwarranted conflict is not in anyone’s interest
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Why you can trust SCMP
Certainty and consistent leadership are important for a military – and the United States, despite having the world’s strongest fighting force, has lacked that under President Donald Trump. New Secretary of Defence Mark Esper fills a post vacant for seven months and is the third person to hold the position in 2½ years.
No one should be surprised that he shares the hawkish views of leading figures in the White House towards China. But while that may be of concern to Beijing, Chinese can take comfort in his being amply qualified for the job and understanding that unwarranted conflict is not in the interests of his nation or the world.
Unlike a number of others who have held top positions in Trump’s administration, Esper has the expertise to capably carry out his duties. As a veteran combat army officer and a defence industry and policy expert, he has great understanding of the workings of the military.
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But there will also be challenges, both in dealing with his country’s adversaries and ensuring his voice can be heard in the seeming confusion of the White House.
He and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are in Australia shoring up a long-standing security and strategic alliance that has been fraught with uncertainty under Trump.
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