During the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, General Carsten Breuer, Germany's Chief of Defense, stated that China is missing a crucial opportunity by not sending a ministerial-level delegation. He described today's global environment as perilous, emphasizing the importance of dialogue among nations. Breuer noted that China's defense minister, Dong Jun, has skipped the conference for two years, delegating representation to Major General Meng Xiangqing instead. He urged for higher-level discussions to foster better understanding, although he acknowledged that dialogue still occurs at lower levels. Breuer's remarks were echoed by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who condemned any state, including China, that threatens the security and prosperity of allied nations. Meanwhile, Philippines Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro downplayed China's absence, suggesting that their participation would not contribute constructively to the dialogue, viewing it more as a means to promote their party line than to engage meaningfully.