US Tones Down Rhetoric on China While Reaffirming Pacific Commitment
At a Singapore defense forum, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reassured Pacific allies of continued US engagement while softening the previous stance on the Chinese threat. Emphasizing the importance of strategic stability, Hegseth highlighted the necessity of a balanced power dynamic in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Country:
- United States
At the Shangri-La defense summit held in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reassured Pacific nations of ongoing American involvement, while softening his previous remarks regarding China as a threat. Hegseth focused on advocating for a sustained power balance, emphasizing the region's significance to US security and prosperity.
During the conference, Hegseth remarked on China's growing military ambitions, particularly in relation to Taiwan. However, he noted recent developments in US-China relations following discussions between US President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, which aimed for a more constructive and stable partnership.
The dialogue comes amid US domestic concerns about the administration's stance toward China. American Senator Tammy Duckworth criticized the Trump administration for potentially accommodating Beijing's interests, expressing worries about US commitments in the Indo-Pacific.
Despite altering the rhetoric, Hegseth reiterated the US commitment to prevent any single power, including China, from dominating the Indo-Pacific, while urging allies to share the defense burden more equitably.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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