Bipartisan U.S. Delegation Pushes for More Military-to-Military Dialogue with China Amid Strained Relations

In Bangkok, a group of U.S. legislators advocated for increased military-to-military dialogue during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, marking a significant congressional visit since U.S.-China relations deteriorated.

The most recent senate trip occurred in 2023, and this Sunday’s delegation represented the first visit from the House of Representatives to Beijing since 2019.

Li Qiang extended a warm welcome to the delegation led by Rep. Adam Smith, characterizing it as an “icebreaker” that could further ties between the two nations. He stated, “It is crucial for our two countries to engage in more interactions and cooperation – not just beneficial for us but also critical on a global scale.”

Smith, a Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, emphasized the shared objective of the visit, stating, “Obviously, trade and economy are top priorities… However, we are particularly focused on our military-to-military discourse. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I am concerned that our two militaries do not communicate enough.”

The delegation comprised Michael Baumgartner, a Republican member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in addition to Ro Khanna and Chrissy Houlahan, both Democrats on the House Armed Services Committee. The legislators are scheduled to remain in China until Thursday.

Strained relations between the U.S. and China have been exacerbated by trade disputes, the contested status of Taiwan, Beijing’s backing of Russia, and territorial claims in the South China Sea.

“China and the U.S. are the world’s most influential powers – it’s vital that we maintain harmony and coexist peacefully,” Smith said. “I appreciate your intentions to cultivate and strengthen our relationship.”

President Donald Trump previously announced plans to meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping at a regional summit in South Korea, scheduled for the end of October. A trip to China is also planned for the early part of next year, following a lengthy phone call between the two leaders on Friday.