Pete Hegseth, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, emphasized Washington's commitment to the Indo-Pacific region on Wednesday at the ASEAN Defense Ministers' meeting held in Cebu, Philippines, stating that the United States will continue to defend its interests and those of its allies and partners.
Strengthening Operational Cooperation
During this two-day meeting, Hegseth told the defense ministers of Southeast Asian countries that the United States will support this commitment with stronger operational cooperation, including enhanced maritime awareness and increased collaboration among fleets. According to him, "These issues are not symbolic; they are clear signs of what serious partners are doing."
He continued, "Serious partners train together, learn together, plan together, and build the trust and capabilities necessary to deter conflict." Hegseth further explained that the U.S. approach will be "strong, calm, and clear," adding, "This approach will be strong enough to deter intimidation and aggression and calm enough to avoid unnecessary escalation or public theater."
Challenges from the Iran War
Politicians in Southeast Asia are currently facing challenges arising from the Iran war. A conflict that began on February 28 with U.S. and Israeli attacks has disrupted global oil and transportation markets, revealing Southeast Asia's vulnerability to shocks from imported fuels. This issue has placed energy security on ASEAN's agenda.
Hegseth also suggested that a U.S.-ASEAN defense cooperation framework be developed to guide relations in the coming years, which he described as "critically important years." The two sides will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their official relations next year.
Meanwhile, tensions between the Philippines and China have increased as another source of tension at this meeting, while the goal of these meetings is to enhance dialogue and operational cooperation on security issues. While China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, other Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia, claim parts of it.
Hegseth will have the opportunity at this meeting to address issues related to China, the South China Sea, and Washington's commitments to its treaty allies. This is particularly vital for the Philippines, a U.S. treaty ally, whose relations with Beijing have soured due to ongoing conflicts in the South China Sea.
China is also expected to participate in this meeting with a representative. In the days leading up to this meeting, the Philippine military announced that it had monitored and tracked China's aircraft carrier Liaoning as it passed from the waters south of the Philippines toward the Celebes Sea.
On the other hand, the final statement from the President is expected to be more tempered than the discussions behind closed doors and to use language familiar and acceptable to ASEAN. Manila's position as ASEAN chair while embroiled in disputes with China is "very sensitive."
In conclusion, this meeting aims to balance economic aspirations, energy security, and maritime cooperation in light of rising tensions with China and stalled progress in drafting a code of conduct for the South China Sea.
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