US, Chinese defence chiefs hold talks

News Snapshot:

Washington | US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with China’s defence minister on Wednesday (AEST), the first engagement the two have had in more than a year as their countries seek to restore military ties. The phone call comes as US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping have sought to manage tensions; the two leaders resumed direct military talks last year. Lloyd Austin last spoke with his Chinese counterpart in 2022. AP In a readout after the call, the Pentagon said Mr Austin “underscored the importance of respect for high-seas freedom of navigation guaranteed under international law, especially...