Asia's premier defense and security summit kicked off in Singapore on Friday, drawing representatives from 47 countries, including 40 ministerial-level delegates, over 20 chiefs of defense forces, and a Chinese delegation from the National Defense University of the Chinese People's Liberation Army.
French President Emmanuel Macron opened the summit with a keynote speech stressing Asia and Europe’s shared stake in preventing the disintegration of the global order. His remarks highlighted the power of cross-regional collaboration at a time of rising geopolitical friction.
On Saturday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to outline America’s new ambitions for Indo-Pacific security. Observers say he faces the challenge of rebuilding trust with Asian allies still cautious after past disruptive policies and trade disputes.
Also speaking on Saturday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will highlight Malaysia’s strategic leadership as ASEAN chair amid shifting geo-economic fault lines. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas will weigh in with Europe’s security priorities in Asia.
Analysts expect in-depth discussions on regional cooperation, U.S. security policies, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the fallout from sweeping U.S. tariffs. In an increasingly multipolar landscape, these debates will shape defense strategies and reassure partners navigating global uncertainties.
The three-day summit runs through Sunday, offering a dynamic platform for dialogue that resonates beyond conference halls into boardrooms, news feeds, and policy debates worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
