From AFP:
US Defence Secretary Robert Gates arrived here Sunday for talks with Chinese leaders about a military buildup that has raised US concerns about Beijing’s intentions.
A Chinese anti-satellite test in January, advances in cyber warfare, and the development of missiles capable of striking US naval forces and air bases at long ranges have fueled the unease, officials said.
“These increasing capabilities and this capacity raises questions with us and our allies,” a senior defence official traveling with Gates said, speaking on condition of anonymity. [Full Text]
Read also China and U.S. to set up defence hotline – report by Reuters:
China and the United States are likely to announce the establishment of a military hotline during a visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates, the China Daily newspaper reported on Monday, citing unnamed sources.
The United States has long been interested in establishing a defence hotline with China, and a Chinese military official indicated in June that Beijing backed the idea.
But a senior U.S. defence official said last week it remained to be seen whether details of such a plan could be agreed during Gates’s visit, which is aimed at strengthening ties overshadowed by distrust. [Full Text]
