Chief of Naval Operations spokesman Capt. Darryn James provided the following readout:

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson held a video teleconference (VTC) with Vice Adm. Shen Jinlong, People's Liberation Army (Navy) Commander, June 14.

The two leaders exchanged views on Navy-to-Navy and bilateral military relations. Speaking from the Pentagon, Adm. Richardson emphasized the United States Navy's commitment to maintaining a safe and secure Indo-Pacific region. Adm. Richardson also advocated for the rules-based international order that has allowed all nations, large and small, to economically prosper the last 70 years.

The U.S. and Chinese navies will continue constructive efforts to improve operational safety and professional interactions. Both leaders recognized the importance of communications to avoid miscalculation and to reduce risk for the two navies.

This is the second time Adm. Richardson and Vice Adm. Shen have conducted a VTC -- their first occurred in July 2017.