Hagel's insensible remarks

US DEFENSE SECRETARY CHUCK HAGEL'S four-day visit to China starting from Monday is a sign of the enhanced dialogue and exchanges between Chinese and US militaries, which are very important because they could help reduce misunderstandings and miscalculations.

However, his remarks prior to his visit show there is much work still to be done in this regard.

Referring to the territorial disputes China has with its neighbors, he said he would press China to use its power wisely and respect its neighbors. By pointing the finger at China as the instigator of increased tensions in the region, he is ignoring the fact that it is the United States' meddling in the territorial issues which has resulted in the worsening situation in the South China Sea.