On November 3, 2023, the first round of consultations on maritime affairs between China and the United States was held in Beijing. Director-General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs of the Foreign Ministry Hong Liang and State Department China Coordinator and Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs of the United States Mark Baxter Lambert co-hosted the consultations. Representatives of departments related to maritime affairs and ministries of national defense of the two countries attended the event.

The two sides had a candid, in-depth and constructive exchange of views on maritime situations, maritime security, maritime economy and the maritime environment, among others. The two sides emphasized the necessity to strengthen dialogue and communication, manage and control maritime situations, avoid misunderstanding and misjudgment, and explore mutually beneficial cooperation.

The Chinese side expounded on China's policy position on maritime issues, expressed grave concerns over the United States' increased military presence in the region, its frequent close-in reconnaissance on China, and its encouragement and support of countries concerned in the South China Sea issue in making infringement and provocation, among others, and urged the United States to earnestly respect China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, stop meddling in maritime disputes of countries in the region, and play a constructive role in regional peace and stability.