In a notable statement on May 26, 2026, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on China to respect the long-standing positions of the United States in the Asia region. The remarks came as bilateral relations grow increasingly tense, particularly over security and trade issues in the Indo-Pacific area.
According to Kyodo News, Hegseth emphasized that the US maintains long-term security commitments with its allies in the region and expects China to acknowledge these strategic interests. He argued that mutual respect is the foundation for ensuring stability and peace.
Analysts suggest the call reflects rising strategic competition between the two powers, especially in areas such as the South China Sea and other waters where the US routinely conducts freedom of navigation patrols.
As of now, China has not issued an official response to the US defense secretary's statement.
