US should respect China's sovereignty, core interests

Not surprisingly, the "freedom of navigation" operations conducted by the United States in the South China Sea featured in the meetings between high-ranking Chinese military officers and Admiral Harry Harris, commander of the US Pacific Command, in Beijing on Tuesday.

Defense Minister Chang Wanquan told Harris that the US move could easily lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments, and bring new uncertainties to regional security, while Chief of General Staff of the People' Liberation Army Fang Fenghui reiterated China remains resolute in its determination to safeguard its sovereignty and maritime interests.

Such face-to-face talks between high-ranking army officers from both sides should help both militaries better understand each other's strategic intentions and avoid any miscalculation.