Higher risk of accidental clash as China suspends US defence dialogue: analysts
- Beijing appears to be preparing for prolonged confrontation, Chinese observer says
- Tensions between China and the US over Taiwan are likely to be felt in the South China Sea, according to analyst
Continued talks between the two militaries was regarded as one of the key areas of engagement between the two countries as they locked horns over others such as trade and human rights.
“There is a risk of accidental fire,” former Chinese military instructor Song Zhongping said.
“China-US relations will further deteriorate and the tensions will be prolonged. The incidents [Pelosi’s trip and the suspension of dialogue] are just opening the door [for deterioration].”
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Mainland China launches largest military drill in the Taiwan Strait after Pelosi’s visit
Citing three people with knowledge of the matter, Politico reported on Friday that top Chinese military officials did not return multiple calls from their American counterparts this week.
The report quoted officials and experts as saying that China’s silence was a short-sighted and reckless move that increased the risk of escalation in an already tense situation.