In a wide-ranging speech in front of regional defence chiefs at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Shanahan called on Asian allies to increase their security spending, while emphasising the United States’ commitment to the region. He did not specifically name China when making accusations of “actors” destabilising the region. While naming China, Shanahan said it was in Beijing’s interests to have a constructive relationship with the United States. CHINA TO RESPONDChina’s Defence Minister Wei Fenghe is due to address Asia’s marquee security summit on Sunday when he is expected to criticise the United States over its implied support for a democratic Taiwan. On Friday, Shanahan held talks with Wei that both sides called “constructive”, although their teams later reverted to type with critical comments on each other’s defence strategies.

Source: bd News24 June 01, 2019 01:18 UTC