China Accuses US Defense Secretary of Provocation Over Asia Expansion Warning

Singapore: China Accuses US Defense Secretary of Provocation. The Chinese embassy in Singapore has accused US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth of "incitement and provocation." The accusation follows Hegseth's speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue, where he warned of China's potential military expansion in Asia. "China is preparing to use force to expand its influence in parts of the Indo-Pacific region," Hegseth stated during his address. The Chinese embassy's statement condemned Hegseth's remarks, asserting they constituted "incitement and provocation." This incident highlights growing tensions between China and the US in the Asia-Pacific region. The situation underscores the need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation. The Shangri-La Dialogue provides a critical platform for dialogue and de-escalation amongst regional powers.