Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles, Japanese Minister of Defense Nakatani Gen, Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., and United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth convened on May 31, 2025, in Singapore. This meeting marked the fourth gathering of defense leaders from these countries over the past three years. Their ongoing collaboration aims to advance a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
During the meeting, concerns were raised about China's actions in the East China Sea (ECS) and South China Sea (SCS). The leaders expressed worry over unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion. They highlighted their concerns regarding China's conduct against the Philippines and other nations in the SCS. Emphasizing peaceful dispute resolution, they underscored the importance of international law adherence, particularly as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The leaders called for peace and stability in the region while emphasizing ASEAN's central role in maintaining security within the Indo-Pacific.
Four key developments emerged from this partnership:
The first development focused on synchronizing priority defense investments to enhance security cooperation. Efforts include infrastructure investments supporting Philippine defense priorities. Installations like Japan-made air surveillance radar systems at Wallace Air Station and U.S.-integrated air domain sensors at Basa Air Base aim to improve awareness within the SCS.
The second development centered on enhancing information-sharing to establish a common operating picture across regions like SCS and Indo-Pacific. The bilateral General Security of Military Information Agreement between the U.S. and Philippines was welcomed by leaders, with Australia and Japan planning similar agreements with Manila.
Thirdly, strengthening cybersecurity and resilience was agreed upon through joint investments aimed at countering threats posed by malicious actors.
Lastly, increasing operational coordination was reaffirmed for improved deterrence, peace, and security across regions such as ECS and SCS. Future efforts will expand multilateral maritime cooperative activities' scope alongside additional partners.
These defense leaders emphasized regular meetings among ministers to bolster cooperation among their nations while committing to work together with other partners toward regional peace and prosperity.