Chinese defense minister holds phone talk with US counterpart

BEIJING - Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe on Thursday took a phone call from US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper upon invitation.

The two sides exchanged views on the bilateral ties and military relations, as well as the bilateral military exchanges in the next phase.

Wei stated China's principled position on questions including the South China Sea, Taiwan and the US stigmatization of China, and urged the US side to stop erroneous words and deeds, improve the management and control of maritime risks, avoid taking dangerous moves that may escalate the situation, and safeguard regional peace and stability.

Esper said that amid tensions between the two countries, the two militaries should maintain dialogue and consultation to manage crises, avoid misjudgment and reduce risks.