In Singapore, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reassured Pacific allies of America’s dedication to the region, nuanced compared to past remarks labeling China a threat. Speaking at the Shangri-La defense conference, he emphasized the region’s profound implications for U.S. security and prosperity, targeting a lasting, favorable balance of power in the Pacific.
This was his second appearance at the forum organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies. Previously, he angered Beijing by highlighting threats from China, specifically its military stance toward Taiwan. Hegseth had noted China’s militarization efforts aimed at Taiwan, claiming they train for potential action daily.
The meeting followed President Trump’s visit to Chinese President Xi Jinping, fostering a positive outlook on shared futures. Hegseth shared that the leaders agreed on maintaining stable relations under equality and reciprocity, upholding vigorous protection of national interests while pursuing mutually beneficial agreements.
However, Hegseth stressed prioritizing efforts to prevent Chinese dominance of the Indo-Pacific region. He acknowledged concerns over China’s growing military power and activities within and beyond the region.
Hours later, Major General Meng Xiangqing praised Hegseth’s remarks, commending the consensus between Xi and Trump as strategic guidance for U.S.-China relations spanning years.
Federal Senator Tammy Duckworth, present with a congressional delegation, critiqued the Trump administration’s approach to China, voicing fears over losing focus in Indo-Pacific commitments due to engagements elsewhere.
Following the Xi-Trump interactions, Trump raised doubts about U.S. defense readiness for Taiwan, citing a pending $14 billion arms deal as strategic leverage with China.
Hegseth affirmed unchanged U.S. status on Taiwan without commenting on the arms deal, stating future arms sale decisions lie with the president.
Hegseth reiterated U.S. demands for increased defense spending among allies, emphasizing partnership over protection. He praised Asian allies for defense efforts while critiquing European allies distracted by global rhetoric around rule-based international order.
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles supported rule-based systems preventing dominance by powerful nations, advocating system renewal rather than disassembly.
Separately, Hegseth, Marles, and British Defense Secretary John Healey announced a new AUKUS submarine drone initiative, building upon nuclear-powered submarine developments. The trio pledged investment in advanced underwater drone capabilities to address submarine cable and pipeline threats.