China threat prompts U.S. call for stronger Asia defense
During his address in Singapore, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth warned that China may be preparing to use military force in the Asia-Pacific region. He called on Indo-Pacific allies to increase defense spending, emphasizing that the threat from China is real and could be imminent.
What do you need to know?
- U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth warned during the Shangri-La Dialogue forum in Singapore that China may be preparing to use military force in the Asia-Pacific region.
- Hegseth called on Indo-Pacific allies to increase defense spending, emphasizing that the threat from China is real and could be imminent.
- Washington is tightening cooperation with traditional allies such as Japan and the Philippines and strengthening relations with India.
"The threat from China is real and could be imminent," Hegseth warned in his first address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, the largest Asian security and defense forum. He added that Beijing "wants to dominate and control" the region and "trains its troops daily" for an invasion of Taiwan, which it considers its territory and is increasing military pressure on, promising "reunification."
America focuses on the Indo-Pacific
In response to these actions, the United States has recognized the region as a priority area and is changing its strategy to deter any aggression from communist China. Washington has strengthened cooperation with traditional allies such as Japan and the Philippines, and reinforced relations with India. Hegseth emphasized that America is proud to return to the Indo-Pacific and intends to stay there.
During his address, the Pentagon chief noted the absence of Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun at the forum. This is the first such occurrence since 2019. Instead of a high-ranking official, Beijing sent only an academic delegation.
Increasing defense spending
The U.S. Secretary of Defense appealed to allies to increase defense spending, citing Europe's example, which improved its defense capabilities under pressure from President Trump. Hegseth stated that what Europe is doing should become a model for Asia, emphasizing that key allies in Asia should not spend less on defense in the face of a more powerful threat.
A report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), organizer of the Shangri-La Dialogue, points to increased arms spending in Asia, although the regional average is 1.5% of GDP. Hegseth noted that Washington can focus on the threat from China if Europeans take better care of their security.
"We are not here to lecture you on climate change or cultural issues. We sincerely respect you and want to work with you where our common interests align," he said.
The three-day forum, which began on Friday, is attended by representatives of 47 countries, including defense ministers, diplomats, and security specialists. The event has been organized by IISS since 2002.
