HONOLULU (Realist English). China and the United States convened the second working-group meeting and the 2025 annual session under the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement (MMCA) in Hawaii from November 18 to 20, the Chinese navy said on Saturday.
According to Beijing’s statement, the discussions were held on the basis of “equality and respect,” with both delegations engaging in what China called candid and constructive exchanges on the maritime and aerial security environment between the two militaries.
Delegates reviewed recent cases of encounters at sea and in the air, assessed implementation of the Rules of Behavior for Safety of Air and Maritime Encounters, and explored measures to improve frontline deconfliction and crisis-management mechanisms. They also exchanged ideas on potential agenda topics for the 2026 session.
Both sides agreed that the MMCA mechanism has helped units on the ground interact more professionally, reduce misunderstandings, avoid misjudgments, and manage operational risks.
Beijing, however, reiterated its “firm opposition” to activities conducted under the banner of freedom of navigation or overflight that it says undermine China’s sovereignty and security. It also objected to what it described as provocations, infringements, and close-in reconnaissance missions near its territory.
China “will continue to resolutely uphold national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with laws and regulations, and safeguard regional peace, stability and prosperity,” the navy said.
