Discussions between Defense Minister Wei Fenghe and his U.S. counterpart James Mattis have been "positive and constructive," the Ministry of National Defense announced on Thursday, after a fruitful visit to the United States by the defense minister.

Defense Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang stated at a press briefing that the two defense ministers have met three times in the past five months, and indicated that military-to-military relations between the two countries remain generally positive.

Earlier this month, Wei and Mattis held talks at the second China-U.S. Diplomatic and Security Dialogue in Washington. During the dialogue, the two sides agreed to maintain military communications at various levels, and strengthen dialogue in a bid to deepen communication and reduce the risks.

The two sides will remain in close communication to develop a Crisis Deconfliction and Communication Framework, and remain committed to implementing existing Confidence Building Measures.

"Military-to-military ties are a major component of China-U.S. relations," said Ren. "A healthy and stable military relationship is in the interest of both sides and meets the expectations of the international community."

Ren reiterated hopes that the two countries can work together to implement the major consensus reached by the two heads of state, maintain strategic communication, increase institutional dialogue, promote practical cooperation, enhance mutual trust, and manage conflicts. Ultimately, it is hoped that the military-to-military relationship can realize its potential as a stabilizer for the overall bilateral relationship between the U.S. and China.

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