US and China hold maritime security talks

The US and Chinese militaries have finished two days of talks on maritime security, the first such discussions since China broke off military contact in protest at the US sale of arms to Taiwan.

The US Pacific Command said in a statement yesterday that the Honolulu meeting was aimed at increasing the safety of airmen and sailors.

The US has promoted bilateral contacts to help the two powers understand one another better and avoid miscalculation.

US Marine Corps Major General Randolph Alles led the US delegation. Rear Admiral Liao Shining of the People’s Liberation Army Navy led the Chinese side.

The two countries agreed to the Hawaii meeting late last month.