US Defense Secretary nominee criticized for failing to name any ASEAN country

(CLO) Mr. Pete Hegseth, the nominee of US President-elect Donald Trump to be Secretary of Defense, could not name any country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This has sparked a wave of criticism both inside and outside the US.

During a hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on January 14, Sen. Tammy Duckworth asked Mr. Hegseth to “state the importance of at least one country… in ASEAN” and what kind of agreements the US has with at least one of those countries.

In response, Mr. Hegseth said: "I won't say exactly how many countries are in there, but I know we have allies in Korea, Japan and AUKUS with Australia. We are trying to cooperate in building submarines with them." AUKUS is a defense alliance between Australia, the UK and the US.

Senator Duckworth immediately criticized: "None of the three countries you mentioned are in ASEAN. I suggest you do a little homework before preparing for these types of negotiations."

Mr. Pete Hegseth, who was chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to be Secretary of Defense. Photo: Facebook/PeteHegseth

ASEAN, which includes 10 Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines and Thailand, plays an important role in the US's Indo- Pacific strategy.

The US also has defense agreements with the Philippines and Thailand, while Singapore is one of its key security cooperation partners.

However, Mr. Hegseth's failure to name any member states, including close allies like the Philippines and Thailand, has cast doubt on his ability to lead defense policy.

The situation not only highlights Mr. Hegseth's lack of preparation for his confirmation hearing, but also raises questions about America's commitment to ASEAN.

Critics say the US's frequent preference for bilateral cooperation, such as increasing its military presence in the Philippines or establishing AUKUS, has undermined ASEAN's collective role.

At the same time, the sharp separation between US defense and economic policies has also raised concerns that Washington is too focused on security to the exclusion of economic cooperation with the region.

Mr. Hegseth, 44, a former Fox News host and military veteran, has sparked controversy with conservative views such as opposing women in combat and criticizing diversity policies in the military.

Despite opposition from Democrats, Mr. Hegseth is still likely to be confirmed thanks to support from Mr. Trump and Republican senators.

Hoai Phuong (according to CNA, Reuters, SCMP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ung-vien-bo-truong-quoc-phong-my-bi-chi-trich-vi-khong-neu-ten-duoc-nuoc-asean-nao-post330781.html