China Refuses Request to Meet With U.S. Defense Secretary

China rejected a proposal for its defense minister to meet with the U.S. defense secretary at an annual security forum in Singapore.
Tensions between China and the U.S. have risen due to various military and trade issues.
The U.S. says China's unwillingness to engage threatens to undermine communication and increase the possibility of conflict.
China blames U.S. actions like sanctions and support for Taiwan for damaging the relationship and atmosphere for dialogue.
High-level military talks between the countries have stalled as China continues to decline or not respond to U.S. requests for meetings.