US, France Urge Increased Asian Military Spending Amid China Concerns at Shangri-La Dialogue

The 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue, held in Singapore from May 30 to June 1, 2025, saw significant discussions on regional security. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin urged Asian nations to boost their defense budgets, citing growing threats from China. "The challenges we face in the Indo-Pacific are real," Austin stated, emphasizing the need for a strong collective response. French President Emmanuel Macron, also present at the summit, proposed a new security framework for cooperation between Europe and Asia. Macron's call for a stronger partnership highlighted the need for a unified approach to address common security concerns. The event underscores the growing tensions in the region and the importance of international cooperation in maintaining stability.