US defense chief tones down on his China rhetoric

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth toned down his comments over China at the latest Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Friday. He referred to the meeting between China and US' leaders in Beijing recently.

"They agreed that the US and China should build a constructive relationship of strategic stability based on fairness and reciprocity," said Hegseth, "reaffirming that while our nations will vigorously protect our respective interests, we can secure practical, mutually beneficial agreements where our interests align."

However, Hegseth refused to comment on any possible arms sales to Taiwan, saying that any decisions will rest with the US President. Shangri-La dialogue is Asia's premier defense conference.

Now in its 23rd year, the event is organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies and held in the Shangri-La Hotel.

It is known for its frank exchanges between delegates as they deal with some of the biggest defence issues of the day.