Key facts
- US seeks deeper defense engagement with ASEAN.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth proposed a new cooperation framework.
- Formal discussions are expected to begin next year.
The U.S. is aiming for enhanced defense ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth put forward a proposal for a new cooperation framework. The U.S. anticipates that formal discussions regarding this framework will commence in the upcoming year. Singapore is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating these defense talks.