BEIJING, Nov 22 - This week, the U.S. and Chinese militaries had “open and constructive” talks about maritime security, according to a statement from the Chinese navy on Saturday. This comes as both countries are slowly restoring their military communications after a period of trade tensions.

The meetings took place from November 18 to 20 in Hawaii, as noted on the official social media account of the People’s Liberation Army Navy.

These discussions were the first working-level talks since April, marking the start of military dialogues under U.S. President Donald Trump's second term. The meetings are part of a twice-yearly series called the military maritime consultative agreement (MMCA) working group.

During the talks, both sides exchanged views on the current maritime and air security situations between China and the U.S., stated the Chinese navy.

China also criticized U.S. freedom-of-navigation operations, which are often conducted in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea, areas where China asserts sovereignty.

“China ... firmly opposes any infringement and provocation,” the Chinese navy mentioned regarding U.S. military operations in these waters.

Both nations also talked about specific incidents involving naval and air encounters to ensure that their military forces interact more safely and professionally.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth raised concerns about Chinese activities in the South China Sea and around Taiwan during a meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun last month.

China has been increasing its air, naval, and coast guard presence around Taiwan, which it considers its own territory. Taiwan, however, rejects China’s claims of sovereignty.

The Pentagon has been advocating for better communication with China regarding its military advancements and regional strategies, asking for more transparency about its nuclear weapons and discussions at the command level.

The working group is set to meet again in 2026, as stated in the announcement.