Latest news with #Shangri-LaDialogue2025
Straits Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Straits Times
Shangri-La Dialogue 2025: Did China really take a back seat by not sending its defence minister?
Major General Hu Gangfeng (C), Vice President of National Defense University of Chinese People's Liberation Army attends the Shangri-La Dialogue Summit in Singapore on May 31, 2025. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / AFP) AFP Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 Did China take a back seat by not having its defence minister attend top security meet? SINGAPORE - Almost everyone was talking about China at the Shangri-La Dialogue this weekend. The main question: Why did Beijing opt not to send its defence minister? For the large part of the three-day security forum held at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore, China was not around to push back against the criticisms levied against it. But it appears that this was a calculated loss that Beijing is prepared to accept. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned China about 20 times in his speech on May 31, as he urged other countries in the Indo-Pacific to increase their defence expenditure, buy more American arms and buffer themselves against the 'threat' posed by China. French President Emmanuel Macron on May 30 invited the security policymakers and military chiefs attending the forum to think of Russia's aggression in Ukraine as what China might do to Taiwan or the Philippines. The role of the Chinese defence minister is to conduct defence diplomacy and explain China's security positions to other countries. Had he been at this weekend's top security gathering in Singapore, Beijing would have had the podium for over an hour to respond to Washington and address the concerns raised by other delegates. Not this year. For the first time since 2019, China's defence minister did not attend. This meant the platform set aside for China had to be downsized accordingly. Its delegation chief – a military scholar with the rank of a one-star general – spoke in a smaller room to a smaller audience for a shorter time than the minister would have had. He was one of five panellists at one of the three concurrent sessions at the end of the day on May 31. As the vice-president of the People's Liberation Army National Defence University, Rear-Admiral Hu Gangfeng is not involved in combat operations or policymaking. He gave a brief response to Mr Hegseth's speech, dismissing his criticisms as 'unfounded accusations' and going against the spirit of the forum, to reduce and not magnify differences. The Chinese embassy in Singapore, which belongs to the ministry of foreign affairs and usually remains backstage at the defence ministry-driven Shangri-La Dialogue, made the unusual move of posting a response to Mr Hegseth's speech on its Facebook page, describing it as 'steeped in provocations and instigation' and a relentless hyping of the China threat. But China's overall response to its critics at the forum this year was markedly low-key compared with the year before. In 2024, the Chinese defence ministry officials briefed reporters hours after then US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin gave his speech; Minister Dong Jun held court at a plenary session the next day; and just before the forum ended, four or five military experts stood in different corners of a hotel room to answer journalists' questions almost in a speed-dating format. Did China shoot itself in the foot by ceding the space at the annual forum for the US to run with its narrative of rallying allies and partners in the region against Beijing? Not necessarily. A Chinese security expert explained that while the delivery style may differ, whoever represents China at the forum is expected to deliver the same talking points that have been pre-cleared by the senior leadership, at the apex of which is President Xi Jinping, the de facto commander-in-chief. He declined to be named as he was not cleared to speak to the media. Rear-Adm Hu alluded to this on May 31 when pressed to explain the absence of the defence minister: 'Objectively speaking, I'm the appointed person today to convey our thinking and exchange views with you all. I suppose you would've heard clearly our true thinking.' He argued that China's representation at the forum changes over the years, and this variance should be seen as a 'perfectly normal work arrangement that does not impact the actual efficacy of our sharing of defence policy thinking'. But this does not mean that China has given up on the Shangri-La Dialogue and will never send its defence minister again. Rear-Adm Hu reaffirmed that China still values and sees the forum as a 'very good platform to engage and discuss with all parties about regional cooperation in Asia-Pacific'. This raises the question – if so, why didn't Beijing send its top defence diplomat here? Observers have proffered a number of theories for Admiral Dong's no-show. A likely explanation is that since the leaders of China and the US have not talked and decided at the highest level on how to manage the bilateral relations, which are fractious across trade, politics and security, there is not much that their defence ministers can meet and talk about, in practical terms. Having bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the forum in the third-party ground of Singapore is the other main purpose of being here, besides to speak at the forum. For example, when Adm Dong attended the forum in 2024 for the first time as defence minister, his bilateral meetings with the then Defence Secretary was crucial for a reset of China-US military ties, which had stalled after then US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi angered China by visiting Taiwan in 2022. Given the uncertainty and unpredictability of bilateral ties, China may have opted for a conservative, wait-and-see approach this year by sending a lower-level representation. Another supplementary consideration is: While Adm Dong appeared to have been in the clear after reportedly being questioned for corruption last year, rumours of other generals being investigated for corruption continue to surface . The absence of high-level military officials would forestall awkward questions, even in casual conversation . As with many things related to the Communist Party of China, the full picture may never emerge. Two scholars in the official Chinese delegation confessed to The Straits Times that they simply did not know the reason Adm Dong did not attend this year's forum. For this year, Mr Hegseth gets the spotlight all to himself. Yew Lun Tian is a senior foreign correspondent who covers China for The Straits Times. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
US expanding military ties with India, says US defence secretary Pete Hegseth, backs deeper QUAD role
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth (AP) US defence secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday said the United States is expanding its security partnership with India, calling for deeper cooperation within the QUAD alliance to counter growing threats in the Indo-Pacific. 'We're also expanding our security partnership with India through robust military exercises like Tiger Triumph,' Hegseth said. 'And we're also amplifying cooperation within the Quad and other multilateral frameworks.' Also read: US warns China is 'preparing' to use military force in Asia Hegseth made clear that the US sees logistical integration among QUAD partners as a key step forward. 'Within the Quad, we're also leading an initiative called the Indo Pacific Logistics Network, enabling QUAD partners to leverage shared logistics capabilities in the Indo Pacific,' he said. 'You know, they say rookies talk strategy, pros talk logistics.' LIVE: Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks at the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 in Singapore. The Defence Secretary's remarks come amid a broader push by the Trump administration to reinforce its strategic footprint in the Indo-Pacific and to assure allies of America's commitment to countering China's military ambitions, particularly regarding Taiwan. 'These exercises enhance our lethality while improving our readiness to respond at a moment's notice,' Hegseth added, referencing joint military drills like Towson Sabre with Australia and Cobra Gold in Thailand. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trade Bitcoin & Ethereum – No Wallet Needed! IC Markets Start Now Undo He also said that the US-led Partnership for Indo Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPER), which involves 14 allies and partners collaborating with the private sector to bolster industrial and defence supply chains. 'I'm proud to announce the first PIPER project,' Hegseth said. 'It plans to establish repair capability and capacity for P8 radar systems in Australia… \[and] will also enable Indo Pacific allies and partners operating the aircraft, including New Zealand and the Republic of Korea, to repair aircraft within the region.' A second PIPER initiative will create standards for small unmanned aerial systems and increase supply chain resilience for their critical components. Hegseth described these steps as essential to deterring adversaries and ensuring that multinational forces have sustained combat support. 'It's one thing for an adversary to see multinational forces operating together in exercises,' he said. 'It's another thing entirely for that same country to see an integrated defence industrial base supporting those forces and standing ready to keep them in the fight.' Speaking in broader terms, Hegseth framed the Trump administration's foreign policy as pragmatic and focused on mutual self-interest. 'President Trump's approach is grounded in common sense and national interest... We are not here to pressure other countries to embrace or adopt policies or ideologies,' he told the summit. 'We are all sovereign nations.' He further stressed the importance of like-minded allies taking more responsibility for regional defence. 'Ultimately, a strong, resolute and capable network of allies and partners is our key strategic advantage,' Hegseth said. 'China envies what we have together.'
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
CDS Gen Anil Chauhan holds bilateral talks with Netherland counterpart on defence cooperation
Singapore City [Singapore], May 31 (ANI): Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan held bilateral discussions with General Onno Eichelsheim, Chief of Defence of the Netherlands, to strengthen defence cooperation between the two nations. According to the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), the discussions focused on exploring avenues to enhance military engagement through exchange programs and bilateral training exercises. 'Deliberations were held on avenues to enhance #DefenceCooperation between both nations through military exchange programs and bilateral training events. Discussions also focused on #OperationSindoor, underscoring India's growing strategic partnerships to ensure peace and stability in the region,' HQ IDS said in a tweet. Earlier, CDS General Anil Chauhan also interacted with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of US INDOPACOM, USA, reinforcing defence ties. Their discussions centred on Operation Sindoor, strengthening military-to-military cooperation and opportunities to foster collaboration in the Indo-Pacific, in the backdrop of the dynamic regional security landscape. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to address emerging security challenges and deepen strategic ties. Meanwhile, India and Brazil strengthened their bilateral ties at the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025, reaffirming their commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Both nations emphasised cooperation on regional security, maritime freedom and sustainable development. General Anil Chauhan and Admiral Aguiar Freire, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Brazil, discussed shared values and interests, underscoring the importance of a rules-based international order and a growing convergence of views between India and Brazil on regional and global issues. At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, CDS Chauhan noted that both countries gained independence at the same time, and Pakistan was ahead of India in various metrics, including social, economic, and GDP per capita, but today, New Delhi is ahead of them. 'Now, on the India-Pakistan relationship, we are not operating without a strategy. When we gained independence, Pakistan was ahead of us on every metric: social, economic, and GDP per capita. Today, India is ahead on all fronts: economic performance, human development, and social harmony, despite our greater diversity. That didn't happen by accident; it's a result of long-term strategy,' he said. 'Diplomatically, we've reached out like in 2014 when the PM invited Nawaz Sharif. But it takes two hands to clap. If all we get in return is hostility, then disengagement may itself be a sound strategy for now,' CDS Chauhan added. (ANI)
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
CDS Gen Anil Chauhan holds bilateral talks with Netherland counterpart on defence cooperation
General Anil Chauhan met with defence leaders from the Netherlands, the US, and Brazil in Singapore. Discussions focused on boosting military cooperation through exercises and exchange programs. Operation Sindoor was a key topic, highlighting India's role in regional peace. India and Brazil also strengthened ties, emphasizing maritime freedom and security. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan held bilateral discussions with General Onno Eichelsheim, Chief of Defence of the Netherlands, to strengthen defence cooperation between the two to the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), the discussions focused on exploring avenues to enhance military engagement through exchange programs and bilateral training exercises "Deliberations were held on avenues to enhance #DefenceCooperation between both nations through military exchange programs and bilateral training events. Discussions also focused on #OperationSindoor, underscoring India's growing strategic partnerships to ensure peace and stability in the region," HQ IDS said in a CDS General Anil Chauhan also interacted with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of US INDOPACOM , USA, reinforcing defence discussions centred on Operation Sindoor , strengthening military-to-military cooperation and opportunities to foster collaboration in the Indo-Pacific , in the backdrop of the dynamic regional security leaders reaffirmed their commitment to address emerging security challenges and deepen strategic ties. Meanwhile, India and Brazil strengthened their bilateral ties at the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025, reaffirming their commitment to a free, open and inclusive nations emphasised cooperation on regional security, maritime freedom and sustainable Anil Chauhan and Admiral Aguiar Freire, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Brazil, discussed shared values and interests, underscoring the importance of a rules-based international order and a growing convergence of views between India and Brazil on regional and global the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, CDS Chauhan noted that both countries gained independence at the same time, and Pakistan was ahead of India in various metrics, including social, economic, and GDP per capita, but today, New Delhi is ahead of them."Now, on the India-Pakistan relationship, we are not operating without a strategy. When we gained independence, Pakistan was ahead of us on every metric: social, economic, and GDP per capita. Today, India is ahead on all fronts: economic performance, human development, and social harmony, despite our greater diversity. That didn't happen by accident; it's a result of long-term strategy," he said."Diplomatically, we've reached out like in 2014 when the PM invited Nawaz Sharif. But it takes two hands to clap. If all we get in return is hostility, then disengagement may itself be a sound strategy for now," CDS Chauhan added.
India Gazette
3 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
"India is ahead on all fronts from Pak": CDS General Chauhan at Shangri-La Dialogue
Singapore City [Singapore], May 31 (ANI): Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan said India today is ahead of Pakistan on all fronts despite greater diversity than the neighbouring country due to its long-term strategy. At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, CDS Chauhan noted that both countries gained independence at the same time, and Pakistan was ahead of India in various metrics, including social, economic, and GDP per capita, but today, New Delhi is ahead of them. 'Now, on the India-Pakistan relationship, we are not operating without a strategy. When we gained independence, Pakistan was ahead of us on every metric: social, economic, and GDP per capita. Today, India is ahead on all fronts: economic performance, human development, and social harmony, despite our greater diversity. That didn't happen by accident; it's a result of long-term strategy,' he said. 'Diplomatically, we've reached out like in 2014 when the PM invited Nawaz Sharif. But it takes two hands to clap. If all we get in return is hostility, then disengagement may itself be a sound strategy for now,' CDS Chauhan added. CDS General Anil Chauhan also interacted with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of US INDOPACOM, USA, reinforcing defence ties. Their discussions centred on Operation Sindoor, strengthening military-to-military cooperation and opportunities to foster collaboration in the Indo-Pacific, in the backdrop of the dynamic regional security landscape. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to address emerging security challenges and deepen strategic ties. Meanwhile, India and Brazil strengthened their bilateral ties at the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025, reaffirming their commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Both nations emphasised cooperation on regional security, maritime freedom and sustainable development. General Anil Chauhan and Admiral Aguiar Freire, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Brazil, discussed shared values and interests, underscoring the importance of a rules-based international order and a growing convergence of views between India and Brazil on regional and global issues. (ANI)
