US Defense Secretary Austin Affirms US Will Not Tolerate China’s ‘Coercion and Bullying’

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin of the United States declared on Saturday that Washington would not tolerate any form of “coercion and bullying” by China towards its allies and partners. While emphasizing the US commitment to maintaining the status quo on Taiwan and advocating for dialogue over conflict, Austin addressed the annual Shangri-La Dialogue, a forum attended by top defense officials, diplomats, and leaders. He sought support for the US vision of a “free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific within a world of rules and rights” as the most effective approach to counter China’s increasing assertiveness in the region.

To counter China’s expansive territorial claims, the US has expanded its own activities in the Indo-Pacific, including regular naval and aerial operations in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. Austin affirmed, “We are dedicated to ensuring that all countries can exercise their rights to navigate, sail, and operate in accordance with international law. Every nation, regardless of size, should be able to engage in lawful maritime activities.”

Austin highlighted the US’s significant contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as providing millions of vaccine doses, disaster relief efforts, and humanitarian assistance in the region. He also emphasized the US’s commitment to addressing climate change, combating illegal fishing, and maintaining secure supply chains, all of which are vital concerns for nations in the Asia-Pacific region. “We are strengthening our alliances and partnerships,” he stated.

The Defense Secretary stressed the US’s determination to deter North Korea’s missile threat and China’s claims on Taiwan, a democratic island that Beijing considers part of its territory. He underlined increased defense planning, coordination, and training with partner nations in the region. “Let me be clear: we do not seek conflict or confrontation. However, we will not back down in the face of bullying or coercion,” Austin firmly asserted.

Austin reiterated the US’s deep commitment to the long-standing one-China policy, which recognizes Beijing as the legitimate government of China but allows for informal relations with Taiwan. He emphasized that the US categorically opposes any unilateral changes to the status quo by either side. Additionally, he referenced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by major countries invading their peaceful neighbors without consequence.

“Deterrence is strong today, and it is our responsibility to maintain it,” Austin affirmed. He emphasized that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are crucial to the entire world. “Conflict is not imminent nor inevitable,” he concluded.

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