CEBU, Philippines — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday proposed the creation of a new, ambitious defense framework between Washington and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), urging regional leaders to deepen military ties ahead of what he described as a "critically important" period.
Speaking in Cebu ahead of a bilateral meeting with defense chiefs from the 10-member bloc, Hegseth praised Southeast Asia’s "pragmatism" and "proud nationalism," acknowledging that while Washington and ASEAN member states may not align on every issue, they should maximize collaboration where mutual interests overlap.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
"As we look to the future in this region, I'd like us to be even more ambitious," Hegseth told the assembly of defense officials. "We propose that we work together to develop a U.S.-ASEAN Framework for Defense Cooperation—a practical framework that guides our cooperation over the next several years."
While Hegseth did not outline specific operational details of the proposed agreement, the initiative comes amid ongoing efforts by the United States to fortify regional security alliances and maintain a "free and open Indo-Pacific" in response to China’s expanding military presence in disputed waters.
