During a meeting in Kuala Lumpur, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told his Chinese counterpart Dong Jun that the United States would "stoutly defend its interests" while emphasizing the importance of regional balance of power. This discussion, described as "good and constructive" by Hegseth, addressed concerns over China's activities in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.

• The meeting occurred on the sidelines of an ASEAN defense ministers gathering, marking continued efforts to improve communication between the two nations.

• China's Defense Ministry stated that Dong urged the US to be cautious regarding Taiwan and oppose its "independence."

• Hegseth also raised concerns about China's actions towards US regional allies like the Philippines and Australia.