Overview

• The delegation met Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People, where he called the trip an “icebreaking” step to further ties.
• Led by Rep. Adam Smith, the top Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, the group prioritized restoring military-to-military dialogue.
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth held his first call with Chinese counterpart Dong Jun around the visit, saying the United States does not seek conflict and will protect vital interests in the Asia‑Pacific.
• The trip followed a phone call between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping, and Trump said he plans to meet Xi at a late‑October summit in South Korea and to visit China early next year.
• Engagement continues despite ongoing disputes over trade, U.S. technology restrictions, Taiwan, and Chinese activities in the South China Sea.