Payam Javan: U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan held a crucial meeting with General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, on Thursday. The rare engagement aimed to manage rising tensions between China and U.S. treaty allies in the region. Sullivan stressed the importance of preventing competition from escalating into conflict, while both sides reaffirmed the need for regular military-to-military communications to maintain open lines of communication and high-level diplomacy.

During the discussions, Sullivan and Zhang addressed various regional security concerns, including China’s tensions with Japan, the Philippines, and Taiwan, as well as the U.S.’s commitment to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. They also discussed global issues such as the conflict in Gaza, concerns over China’s support for Russia’s defense, and the importance of avoiding cyber escalations. Notably, Sullivan emphasized the need for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, while Zhang expressed a desire for frank communication on issues of mutual concern.

In the backdrop of Sullivan’s meeting, Taiwan’s foreign ministry criticized China’s stance on Taiwan, denouncing Beijing’s “intimidation and suppression.” Meanwhile, the Philippines called for a review of its defense treaty with the U.S., citing China’s aggressive territorial claims in the South China Sea. The Philippines’ push for diplomatic actions and alliances with like-minded nations reflects the broader regional concerns about China’s military ambitions and its impact on peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.