U.S. Defense Secretary Hergsays, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, stated that the U.S. hopes to maintain the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region and encourage its allies to enhance their defense capabilities. He also warned against China, saying the U.S. does not want any country to alter the existing regional order.

Shangri-La focuses on Asia-Pacific security

Hegses said the United States will handle its alliances in a “tough, low-key, and clear” manner, and will base cooperation on shared national interests. He emphasized that the U.S. seeks a sustainable regional balance of power and avoids any country gaining dominance in the Asia-Pacific region.

Several Asian partners named

In his speech, he praised the Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, noting that these countries are increasing their defense spending and sharing alliance responsibilities. Hegseth also mentioned that Vietnam and India are enhancing their military preparedness.

Warnings to China and pressure on Europe go hand in hand

When discussing China, Hegsays stated that current US-China relations are in one of their strongest phases in a long period, but still warned China against disrupting the regional status quo. He indicated that the US hopes to create a regional order where no country, including China, can threaten the security and prosperity of the US and its allies through hegemonic means.

In addition to Asia, he criticized European allies for not assuming sufficient responsibility, stating that Europe should heed the US demands for allies to share their obligations. This demonstrates that Washington continues to push allies to shoulder more defense costs, while placing Asia-Pacific security and competition with China in a more prominent position.