Jennifer Pack

His message, and he said it to a room full of military defense officials and diplomats, is for Asian allies to ramp up their defense spending to counter China.

Overall, this is a more toned down message from last year when he called out China for its aggressive policies, continual harassment of Taiwan, which Beijing protested against.

So far, the Chinese delegation has applauded Secretary Hegseth for repeating China's line that the two countries need to maintain a constructive strategic stability.

His message, and he said it to a room full of military defense officials and diplomats, is for Asian allies to ramp up their defense spending to counter China.

Secretary Hegseth says there is rightful alarm at China's military buildup.

He was less clear, though, on how to prevent an escalation.

He only said Asian allies should not be, quote, freeloading off American taxpayers.