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Kumari Gargi, Naomi Miriam Matthew, & Fleur Elizabeth Philip
19 June 2025 |
During 30 May to 01 June, the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La dialogue, took place in Singapore. Ministers and leaders from across the world gathered to discuss the most pressing issues and engage in bilateral talks and forge new relationships. The dialogue is one of the most important forums for the exchange of views on international security policy. 47 countries, including 40 ministerial-level delegates, defence ministers, military chiefs, and senior officials, attended the summit. The countries that participated in the 2025 dialogue are Singapore, Malaysia, the US, Australia, France, Japan, China, India, the Philippines, Germany, Cambodia, Pakistan, Vietnam, New Zealand, the UK, and the EU.
On 30 May, the summit began with a keynote address given by France President Emmanuel Macron. In his address, he called for allying with Europe and Asia. Throughout the three days, there were several new developments from various countries. Some discussed bilateral relations signed trade deals, and some found solutions to their respective countries’ issues.
Singapore:
Transcending borders: collective security without costing another’s safety
On 01 June, Singapore Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing delivered a keynote and addressed on “Enhancing Security Cooperation for a stable Asia-Pacific,” where he discussed two themes. One is the pragmatic shift in the way nations conjure multi-dimensional security, as they are seen as a conflict in geographical localities. Presently they are seen as something which transcends boundaries, such as supply chains or cybersecurity. Sing expressed the importance of a rule-based international order. He also noted three observations that include, one going alone is never an answer. He advocated for the commitment of nations to resolve disputes peacefully per international law and confidence-building measures to reduce the risk of miscalculations. Second, international cooperation starts with domestic confidence: Domestic security and external security should mutually benefit each other. A secure government with strong leadership and support from the people will be able to address global security challenges. Third, all states have agency and responsibility: He emphasised the importance of fairness and equity, and agencies should loom a web of bilateral, multilateral, and plurilateral networks to uphold global economic and security order. He also emphasized the security of underwater infrastructure to secure access to data and energy. Singapore, together with ASEAN partners, announced a set of principles to facilitate defence cooperation on critical underwater infrastructure security in the region.
Malaysia:
Emphasis on strategic pragmatism, not polarization
On 31 May, in a special address note given by Prime Minister Ibrahim stated that Asia’s strategic architecture should be protected from protectionist trade policies and highlighted that such trade policies have ripple effects, often transcending national borders. Malaysia continues to support strategic non-alignment, meaning it will manage its relations with the US and China through strategic pragmatism and not through a formal link to any major power groups. As the current ASEAN chair, Anwar stressed that ASEAN supports its central role and relies on consensus to promote stability between countries. The secretary urged against a new Cold War, saying it could disrupt the region's architecture and reduce Southeast Asia's independence in strategy.
The US:
Commitment to deterrence and partnership with the Indo-Pacific
On 01 June, US Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth, delivered a speech and said that he was delighted to come back again, and looks forward to returning for another dialogue. He added that the US and the Indo-Pacific relationship is one of the oldest in the Republic. He emphasised that under the US President Donald Trump, the US is committed to achieving peace through strength. It starts with dissuading aggressors around the world. Hegseth confirmed that the US’s priorities lie in the Indo-Pacific and is willing to step up to preserve global peace. He also spoke about the warrior ethos that the US abides by, and said that they focus on “lethality, merit, accountability, standards, readiness, and war fighting.” The second priority lies in advancing the military, reviving the industrial base, investing in the shipyards, and constructing the Golden Dome. The third objective of the US is to reestablish deterrence. He commented on the previous government and said that under the former President Joe Biden, the world saw a weak America, illegal immigration of 21 million at the southern border, Russia’s war against Ukraine, and many more. He added that he looks to restore the deterrence around the world, which starts with securing the border and taking back the Panama Canal. Regarding China, he warned about the threat of the rise of China and the devastating consequences of China forcibly taking Taiwan in the Indo-Pacific. He added that China will not conquer Taiwan under Trump’s watch. The defence secretary urged Asian countries to increase military spending to counter China’s military assertiveness in the region. He spoke about NATO and how the other member nations could prioritise their defence, securing the trans-Atlantic. He concluded by saying that the US remains loyal to its allies and will support any aggression that comes from China.
China:
Taiwan is China’s internal affair, and no force can stop the reunification process
On 29 May, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson, said that, unlike the previous summits, China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun will not participate, and to represent him low profiled delegates are to attend. Delegations from the People’s Liberation Army National Defence University are to attend the dialogue in Singapore. There was no specific reason for this action. China responded to Hegseth’s comment by stating the US as the hegemonic power disrupting peace in the Asia Pacific. Beijing reiterated its claims on Taiwan and criticised the efforts of the United States to contain China in the region.
Australia:
Navigating strategic alliances amidst rising military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific
On 31 May, Defence Minister Richard Marles said the Shangri-La dialogue had become the “world’s most consequential strategic arena”. Marles highlighted the significance of alliances like Australia, the UK and the US (AUKUS) and appreciated the strong US commitment in the region. He pointed out China’s quick military growth and lack of openness, insisting on more global efforts to ensure stability in the region. Marles, along with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, discussed with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Sing and discussed their defence and bilateral relationship.
India:
Strategic autonomy in a tech-driven, narrative-shaped era
On 02 June, India’s Defence Chief, General Anil Chauhan, highlighted the transformation of modern warfare and India’s focus on technological advancements and narrative control in modern conflicts. India highlighted its position on strategic autonomy, engaging with major powers while avoiding entangling alliances. India reiterated its support for a rule-based, free, open, Indo-Pacific in adherence with international law. While addressing the regional tensions, India highlighted that the dialogue should be strictly bilateral, avoiding third-party interference in resolving India’s disputes. Top military officials from India and Pakistan exchanged warnings at the dialogue following the tensions between the two sides.
France:
Europe and Asia must unite for shared security and strategic autonomy, not choose between rival empires
On 30 May, President Emmanuel Macron called for an independent coalition of Asian and European countries. Following the keynote address, Macron highlighted the active participation of France in the South Pacific with over 8000 military personnel. He highlighted the chaotic nature of global superpowers China and the US and advocated for independent partnership and not to become the collateral victims by joining alliances. He also emphasized the importance of Europe in preventing Russian annexation in Ukraine.
Philippines:
Anchoring stability in the South China Sea through a rules-based order
On 01 June, Defence Chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr addressed the rising tensions in the South China Sea. At the plenary session, Teodoro and the Chinese delegates spoke about the disputes in the waterway. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr is against the aggression in the South China Sea and urges a rule-based system in the region. Manila has been the most vocal, calling out on China’s moves in the sea, as they have the support of the US, especially in the defence sector. Marcos emphasised the desire to further strengthen relationships with India, South Korea, Australia, Japan and the US so that regional stability is ensured.
Germany:
Beyond Ukraine, NATO must prepare for a broader Russian threat within five years
On 01 June, Top General Carsen Breuer at the Shangri-La Dialogue spoke about Russia’s plans and warned NATO to prepare for a possible Russian attack in the coming five years. He added that the Baltic states should be ready, as they could be the first to receive the attacks at the firing line. On the sidelines of the dialogue, Breuer said that, in the upcoming NATO summit, the member states are to discuss defence budgets among others, and that NATO faces a serious threat from Russia, which has never been witnessed by anyone in his 40 years of service. He added that in 2024, Russia produced four million rounds of 152 mm artillery, and not all were for Ukraine. He affirmed Germany’s commitment to maintain its role in Asia Pacific, in spite of the pressure from the United States for European nations to focus on the threat from Russia.
EU:
International law as key deterrence
On 31 May, High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, highlighted international law as the "best deterrence for all countries, large and small." In defence of common security, countries urged to stop Russian aggression against Ukraine. The EU emphasised many other common security challenges between Asia and Europe, like maritime security, threats to critical underwater infrastructure by China, the challenge of Shadow fleets, and cybersecurity threats. The EU also extended a reliable and credible partnership towards the green transition. The EU envisioned its aim to become a global security partner by a paradigm shift towards a peace project backed up with hard defence by making significant defence investment of up to EUR 800 billion.
Cambodia:
To remain open for dialogue in the Ream Naval Base
On 02 June, it was reported that Cambodia firmly maintained its independent foreign policy and highlighted the importance of remaining neutral and peaceful with other nations. A main point of discussion was mainly US objections to the Ream Naval Base, as Cambodia said the base is open for ships of friendly countries and no foreign troops will be stationed there permanently. Cambodia chose to refrain from taking sides in major power conflicts by building ties with the US and China and making regional security its main priority. Moreover, Cambodia pointed to its efforts to build stronger defence and security links, both with single countries and through multilateral activities, and this was revealed by the agreements with Vietnam and the participation of Chinese and Cambodian forces in joint exercises on the renewed Ream Naval Base. Modernising the military and protecting its borders are the main goals of the 2025 defence budget, and the Ream Naval Base is a major focus in that plan.
Japan:
Anchoring cooperation amid global tensions, commitment to rules, responsibility, and the OCEAN framework
On 31 May, Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani pointed out the threats of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, increasing challenges in the South China Sea and cyber-attacks as evidence of the deterioration of global rules. He spoke out against ignoring international law and urged everyone to pay more attention to the responsible use of global public resources. Nakatani pointed out that there is a growing rivalry and hidden buildup of military strength in the Indo-Pacific, and he urged the need for nations to collaborate again. To encourage unity in the region, he presented One Cooperative Effort Among Nations (OCEAN) as a framework guided by mutual beliefs. It underlined its interest in continuing the Japan–US partnership and strengthening alliances with India, Australia, ASEAN and NATO. It decided it would work with allies to maintain peace and independence, along with an open Indo-Pacific, by focusing its defence efforts on transparency, clear communication and multilateral involvement.
Pakistan:
Focus on India
On 02 June, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khwaja Asif and General Shair Mirza attended the dialogue and emphasised increased defence activities in India, and their impact on the whole South Asia region. Asif confronted the Indian delegates on the recent events between the two regions, New Delhi’s allegations on Islamabad, the deadly attacks on Pahalgam, Kashmir, and the tit for tat launch of air strikes on the air bases, and the need for US President Donald Trump’s intervention for a ceasefire. He urged not to fuel the confrontation by choosing one side and proceeding with unregulated militarisation. It urged support from regional and global powers in a diplomatic framework and other confidence-building measures. Mirza, in a panel discussion “Reginal Crisis Management Mechanisms” called for a permanent resolution, warning that without a proper roadmap to a solution, there could be a possible violent escalation. He also responded to the allegations made by India over Pakistan’s role in the Pahalgam attack and denied all the allegations.
Vietnam:
Defence Minister affirms to protect maritime rights
On 02 June, Vietnam’s Defence Minister, Phan Van Giang, reaffirmed Vietnam’s adherence to protecting maritime rights and its sovereignty. He spoke about the rising tension in the South China Sea, and emphasised on withstand threatening behaviour and freedom of navigation to be maintained among regional powers, to strengthen security collaboration for ASEAN unity. He discussed four main issues, which include, firstly, it emphasised UN-charter fundamental principles and international law predominantly. He added that Vietnam abides by the independence and self-reliance, and also the “fours no’s” in the country's defence policy. Secondly, it also mentioned that promoting cooperation and development, it is crucial to have a desire for stability and to embrace goodwill. It's important to prevent strategic missteps and miscalculations for building trust politically and strategically. Third, to promote development and maintain stability, Vietnam participates in both bilateral and multilateral agreements so it can address the emerging issues through constructive dialogue. Lastly, he emphasised strengthening international cooperation to tackle the non-traditional security concerns.
The UK:
Emphasis on International Law and freedom of navigation beyond NATO
On 30 May, the Chief of the Defence Staff of the UK, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, emphasised three key areas in the Shangri-La dialogue. Radkin spoke on three factors, first, he said that cooperation is the key to moving forward despite the rising global competition, especially in maritime security. Second, he emphasised the international law and navigation of freedom beyond NATO. Third, he highlighted the importance of collaboration and cooperation in international alliances that help global stability and identify global threats.
New Zealand:
Navigating regional risks: New Zealand's defence vision for the Indo-Pacific
On 30 May, New Zealand’s Defence Minister, Judith Collins, emphasises the country's policy in the Indo-Pacific as per the rules of international order. She highlighted the rising militarisation and requested to address both traditional and non-traditional threats in the region with respect to the stronger diplomatic and climate security partnerships. She called for the cooperative efforts by traditional defence partners of New Zealand and raised the prospect of a warship visit to the country. It has boosted defence spending by USD five billion over the next four years. It aims to contribute two per cent of its GDP in the upcoming of next eight years with the growing international tensions.
Timor-Leste:
Bilateral dialogue on regional security and defence
On 30 May 2025, on the sidelines of the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Minister for Defence Mr. Chan Chun Sing met Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta. The bilateral defence ties between their countries were reaffirmed by leaders. He emphasised the regional security developments and opportunities to strengthen defence cooperation.
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