During a dialogue on Friday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth conveyed to China’s defense minister a firm message that the United States is committed to protecting its interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

In discussions with Chinese Admiral Dong Jun, Hegseth underscored the necessity of preserving a balance of power in this strategically significant area. These talks occurred during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) national security summit in Malaysia.

Describing the meeting as “good and constructive,” Hegseth noted he raised “serious concerns” regarding China’s actions in the South China Sea and its stance on Taiwan. He shared these insights in a post on the social platform X.