US, India, China Hold Strategic Indo-Pacific Security Talks Amid Rising Regional Tensions

At an ASEAN defense summit in Malaysia, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with counterparts from India, China, and the Philippines to strengthen regional security amid rising tensions with China. A new 10-year defense cooperation agreement between the U.S. and India was signed, marking a significant step for bilateral military collaboration and regional stability. Hegseth expressed concern over China's assertive actions in the South China Sea and near Taiwan, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to maintaining a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. The Philippines also called for deeper military ties with the U.S. to counter mutual threats, particularly around disputed maritime areas like Scarborough Shoal, where tensions with China have escalated. These moves come amid broader trade tensions between the U.S. and India, as well as ongoing regional disputes involving China, with ASEAN leaders advocating for a nuclear-free Southeast Asia. Overall, the meetings highlight Washington's strategic push to bolster alliances and deter Chinese coercion in the region.