U.S. Defense Ties Deepen Amid China's Rising Influence in SE Asia

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is in Malaysia for bilateral meetings with Southeast Asian defense leaders to bolster security ties in light of China's growing assertiveness. Discussions include U.S.-India defense cooperation and maritime security in the South China Sea, amid regional tensions with China.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrived in Malaysia for a crucial meeting with Southeast Asian defense leaders, aiming to strengthen security relationships against China's bold moves in the region. Hegseth seeks to fortify ties with countries including India and Indonesia as a strategic countermeasure.

The agenda includes a significant discussion with India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on acquiring U.S. military hardware and potential frameworks for future U.S.-India defense collaboration. Also present at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations gathering are representatives from Australia, China, New Zealand, South Korea, and Russia.

Security in the South China Sea was a focal point, with Hegseth meeting Malaysia's Defense Minister to address maritime stability amid China's aggressive claims and actions. Concurrently, U.S.-Philippine defense exercises continue under pivotal agreements, as Washington intensifies its presence to counter Chinese expansion.

(With inputs from agencies.)