"Maintaining such relationships, interaction at all levels, whether it's the State Department, the CIA or the military, etc., is an important function for potential de-escalation in times of crisis," he said in an interview with CNN.
According to Milley, now relations between China and the United States have become complicated. He added that countries are competing with each other and may even be in confrontation, but not yet in conflict.
Earlier, Chinese Defense Minister Li Shanfu said that the conflict between China and the United States would be an "unbearable disaster" for the whole world.
According to him, both countries should look for common ground and common interests to deepen cooperation.
John Kirby, coordinator for strategic communications at the White House National Security Council, noted that the United States and China are expanding communication channels.