US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Trump administration will prioritise cooperation with allies in Asia while maintaining stable relations with China.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue defence forum on Saturday, Hegseth praised Asian allies and described them as “model allies” that are “most capable, clear-eyed, and ready to defend their national interests” as reported by Bloomberg.
He said the administration would focus on strengthening ties with partners that are prepared to contribute to their own defence and security.
At the same time, Hegseth took aim at some of the United States’ longstanding defence partners in Europe.
His remarks come as defence and security leaders gather in Singapore for the annual Shangri-La Dialogue to discuss regional and global security challenges.
