Singapore: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized America's strategy to collaborate with Indo-Pacific allies to maintain "peace through strength" and deter China's assertiveness. Hegseth clarified that the United States aims to avoid conflict with any nation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Hegseth made these comments at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland before departing for the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, an annual defense forum. During his address, Hegseth highlighted the importance of standing firm for U.S. interests, which is a central theme of his visit.
The Pentagon chief reiterated Washington's commitment to engaging with regional allies to promote peace. He acknowledged the expanding ambitions of China and stated that the current administration aims to achieve peace through strength by collaborating with allies, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Financial Times noted that Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun would not attend the Shangri-La Dialogue. On Saturday, Hegseth is scheduled to deliver plenary remarks at the forum.
As the forum coincides with South Korea's presidential vote on June 3, Seoul's acting Defense Minister Kim Sun-ho opted out of attending, and Deputy Defense Minister for Policy Cho Chang-rae is expected to participate instead.
Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun reported that the United States, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines are discussing a potential four-way defense ministerial meeting on the sidelines of the forum in Singapore.