Mullen concerned about China military

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen


Source: Press TV
http://www.presstv.ir/detail.aspx?id=135764§ionid=351020404


Amid rising tension between the US and China, a top US military official has criticized Beijing for cutting off military contacts with Washington.

Speaking to US troops in South Korea, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen said without regular dialogue, it is difficult to ease concerns over China's arms buildup.

"I've moved from being curious about what they're doing, to being concerned about what they're doing," he added.

Mullen said Beijing's spending on hi-tech weaponry has raised questions about its intentions in the region.

"I see a fairly significant investment in high-end equipment — satellites, ships… anti-ship missiles, obviously high-end aircraft and all those kinds of things," he said. "They are (also) shifting from a focus on their ground forces to focus on their navy… and their air force."

Beijing suspended military relations with Washington in January after the US unveiled a multi-billion-dollar arms package for Taiwan.

China opposes all arms sales to Taiwan, which it regards as part of its territory.