China Rejects US Accusations at Shangri-La Dialogue Amid Rising Tensions

Tensions Rise at Shangri-La Dialogue: China Rejects US Accusations Singapore hosted the Shangri-La Dialogue, a prominent Asian security summit, where rising tensions between the US and China took center stage. China's representative, Hu Gangfeng, vice president of China's National Defense University, firmly rejected US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's accusations of China rapidly developing military threats, describing them as "groundless." Hegseth, however, painted a stark picture of a growing threat to Taiwan, urging regional allies to bolster their defenses. He hinted at a potential invasion by China as early as 2027, while simultaneously asserting that the US does not seek conflict. "We do not accept groundless accusations against China," stated Hu Gangfeng, highlighting China's perspective. Hegseth countered by emphasizing the need for stronger regional partnerships to counter China's actions in the South China Sea and its cyber activities. The situation underscores the growing need for increased communication and diplomatic efforts to ease rising tensions in the region. France's call for closer Asia-Europe security cooperation further emphasizes the international concern over the escalating situation.