Pete Hegseth tells Asian allies to boost defense spend to counter China buildup

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday urged Asian allies to ramp up military spending to counter China’s growing power.

SINGAPORE — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday urged Asian allies to ramp up military spending to counter China’s growing power and prevent its dominance in the region, warning of “rightful alarm” over its rapid military buildup.

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Hegseth, speaking at the Shangri-La ⁠Dialogue in Singapore, Asia’s premier forum for defense leaders, militaries and diplomats, said a stronger, more self-reliant network of allies is essential to deter aggression and preserve the balance of power.

“There is rightful alarm regarding China’s historic military buildup and the expansion of its military activities in the region and beyond,” he said.