BEIJING (Reuters) – China’s Defense Ministry criticized outgoing US Defense Secretary James Mattis on Thursday for his “false accusations” against China, but also offered praise for his efforts to promote Sino-US military ties. Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian voiced displeasure at Mattis’ comments. “We oppose the false accusations about China in Secretary Mattis’ resignation letter,” Wu said. Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan will take over from Mattis on an acting basis from Jan. 1. Wu said that under Shanahan’s leadership, China expected military ties would continue to develop in a healthy and stable way.

Source: Egypt Independent December 27, 2018 10:41 UTC