"China has always taken a positive approach to maintaining contacts between the US and Chinese military at all levels. The responsibility for the damage caused to the relations between the two countries lies entirely with the US side," Ren said.
The ministry spokesman stressed that the current problem had arisen because of the erroneous actions of the United States. He, therefore, suggested that Washington immediately correct this mistake and lift the sanctions to eliminate obstacles to the normal development of relations between the armies of the two countries.
"The Chinese side attaches great importance to the development of relations between the armed forces of the two countries, but will never accept foreign interference and threats. China's decisions that are based on ensuring its national interests are unshakable," Ren added.
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Both countries have been engaged in a trade dispute for several months now. Most recently, the United States imposed sanctions on China for purchasing Russian-made weapons systems and S-400 air defense systems. Beijing also recalled the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy commander Vice Adm. Shen Jinlong's from his US visit and postponed planned China-US talks in Beijing.