Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 30, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized that mutual respect and communication between the US and China are vital for global stability. Responding to a question, Hegseth reassured the audience that this engagement is "real, substantive, and meaningful" for the history of peace in the region and the world. His remarks highlighted a shared recognition of each nation's capabilities and the importance of leveraging that power responsibly.