U.S. Defense Secretary Sparks Diplomatic Wave at ASEAN Summit

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth engaged in discussions with Chinese and Indian counterparts during an ASEAN defense summit, aiming to strengthen regional security ties amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific. Talks included defending interests, maritime security, and military cooperation with ASEAN countries, as well as urging Japan to increase defense spending.

In a strategic move to enhance regional security ties, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met on Friday with his counterparts from China and India during the ASEAN defense summit in Malaysia. The United States aims to bolster its presence in the Indo-Pacific in response to China's assertive military activities, particularly in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.

Hegseth and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh signed a pivotal 10-year defense cooperation framework deemed essential for regional stability. This agreement serves as a cornerstone, particularly as discussions regarding India's procurement of U.S. military hardware continue. Meanwhile, Hegseth is poised to meet with leaders from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand to further solidify alliances.

Tensions remain high in the South China Sea, with China claiming significant portions of the waterway, often clashing with Southeast Asian nations. U.S. efforts to counteract this include naval exercises with the Philippines and engagement with other regional allies. President Trump reinforced this commitment, emphasizing strong U.S. support for ASEAN nations, while continuing to press Japan for increased defense spending in light of China's expanding military ambitions.

(With inputs from agencies.)