US not 'turning back' on Asia allies, but expects them to boost defence - Hegseth

The US defense secretary is questioned about US commitment, including further arms deals, at an Asian security summit in Singapore.

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Hegseth sought to reassure Asia-Pacific allies about US commitment to the region, including fulfilling arms deals in the wake of a suspended Taiwan weapons package - even as he reiterated calls for Asian partners to spend more on defence.

While noting the threat of China's military build-up in the region, Hegseth also said the US wanted to avoid "needless confrontation".

Hegseth was speaking weeks after US President Donald Trump held positive talks with ​China's President Xi Jinping in Beijing.

Hegseth was asked by Japan's defence minister to address concerns about US commitment at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday.