Hegseth said on X he told China's Dong Jun the United States would "stoutly defend its interests" and maintain the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific, while voicing concern about Chinese activities in the disputed South China Sea and around Taiwan.

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He also hailed as "a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence" a new 10-year defence cooperation framework signed with Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh.
"It's a significant step for our two militaries, a roadmap for deeper and even more meaningful collaboration ahead," Hegseth told reporters after the signing.

Hegseth and Singh were meeting for the first time since the United States imposed tariffs of 50% on Indian goods in August as punishment for New Delhi's purchases of Russian oil.

The tariffs prompted India to pause purchases of U.S. defence equipment, with the two sides expected to discuss on Friday a review of India's plans to buy the military hardwareю

As Washington looks to tackle China's growing assertiveness in the region, Hegseth is expected to meet the defence ministers of Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand, among others, said an official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Delegations from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Russia are attending the meeting of defence ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.