Singapore: US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has highlighted what he described as strengthening relations between the United States and Pakistan, praising the country’s civilian and military leadership and calling the evolving partnership an important factor for regional stability and peace in South Asia.
Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth said US President Donald Trump had developed a strong relationship with Pakistan’s leadership and credited Islamabad with contributing to efforts aimed at maintaining peace in the region.
Hegseth praises Pakistan’s leadership
During a discussion on regional security issues, Hegseth referred to Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saying both leaders were playing a constructive role in ongoing peace efforts.
He described the warming relationship between Washington and Islamabad as an unexpected but significant development, adding that the partnership was becoming increasingly important in the current geopolitical environment.
According to Hegseth, improved engagement between the two countries could contribute positively to regional stability and diplomatic cooperation.
Comments on India-Pakistan relations
Hegseth also referred to efforts aimed at reducing tensions between India and Pakistan, two nuclear-armed neighbours with a long history of disputes.
He suggested that President Trump had played a role in encouraging dialogue and peace efforts between the two countries, although no specific details were provided regarding recent diplomatic initiatives.
The remarks come amid continued international attention on security dynamics in South Asia and efforts to maintain regional stability.
US does not view India or Pakistan as missile threats
Responding to a question regarding the missile capabilities of India and Pakistan, Hegseth stated that the United States does not currently consider either nation a missile threat.
He emphasised that Washington is not characterising either country as a direct threat to the United States and acknowledged that both nations have legitimate security concerns involving each other.
According to Hegseth, India and Pakistan are likely to continue developing strategic deterrence capabilities as part of their national security policies.
His comments were made in response to questions referencing earlier testimony by Tulsi Gabbard before the US Senate Intelligence Committee, in which concerns were raised about the long-term development of missile systems by several countries, including Pakistan.
Strategic partnership with India reaffirmed
While discussing regional security, Hegseth also reaffirmed the United States’ strategic partnership with India.
He described India as a critical anchor in South Asia and praised its ongoing military modernisation efforts.
The US defence secretary confirmed that Washington and New Delhi are moving forward with plans for the co-production of Javelin anti-tank guided munitions and expanding defence cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
The remarks underscore the United States’ continued efforts to strengthen ties with both India and Pakistan while promoting stability and security across South Asia.