During the Shangri-La defense conference in Singapore, Pete Hegseth, a senior official in the Trump administration, moderated his earlier warnings about China, focusing instead on the need for a favorable balance of power in the Pacific. He assured attendees, including diplomats and security officials, that the US aims to maintain stability in the region, which he described as vital for American security and prosperity. Previously, Hegseth had expressed alarm over China's military buildup and its aggressive stance towards Taiwan. However, following a state visit to China, he shifted his tone, highlighting the potential for a constructive relationship with Beijing. Despite this, he reiterated the US's commitment to preventing Chinese dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion also touched on the pending $14 billion arms package for Taiwan, with Hegseth declining to comment on it, stating that such decisions are up to President Trump. Senator Tammy Duckworth expressed concern about the administration's approach, suggesting it may be compromising US commitments in the region.