Hegseth proposes US-ASEAN defence framework at Manila summit
· Security · Philippines · United States
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged the formation of an 'ambitious' new US-ASEAN defence cooperation framework and called for strengthened maritime awareness and advanced naval coordination in the region, speaking at a summit in the Philippines. Hegseth said the US would back its commitment with practical cooperation and reassured South-east Asia of US commitment, pledging stronger defence ties. Japanese and US defense chiefs also discussed security in the Philippines, reflecting coordinated attention to maritime tensions.
Why it matters：Washington's push for a formal defence framework with ASEAN aims to counter Chinese maritime pressure, and its success will shape security alignments across South-east Asia.
Key points
- Hegseth called for strengthened maritime awareness and naval coordination.
- He pledged to back commitments with practical cooperation.
- Japan and US defense chiefs also discussed Philippine security.
Sources (original reporting)
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