Honolulu, 22 November 2025 (Agencies): China and the United States held candid discussions this week on typical encounters between their naval and air forces during the annual conference of the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement (MMCA), according to Chinese state media.
The meeting, held in Hawaii from Tuesday to Thursday, brought together delegations from both countries for exchanges on maritime and aerial security. China Central Television reported that the talks were guided by “important common understandings” reached by the two heads of state, and conducted on the basis of equality and mutual respect.
China reiterated its firm opposition to actions it said undermine its sovereignty and security under the pretext of freedom of navigation and overflight. It also voiced strong objections to what it described as infringements, provocations, and close-in reconnaissance activities targeting China.
Delegates reviewed the annual implementation of the Rules of Behavior for the Safety of Air and Maritime Encounters, discussed recent incidents involving their forces, and explored measures to enhance maritime military safety. Both sides also exchanged views on the agenda for the 2026 MMCA working group meeting.
Officials agreed that the MMCA meetings contribute to ensuring more professional and safer interactions between frontline forces, helping to avoid misunderstandings, prevent miscalculations, and manage risks and crises.
China emphasized that it would continue to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in accordance with laws and regulations, while upholding regional peace, stability, and prosperity.