Global defense officials meet in Singapore amid US-China tensions.

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Singapore — SINGAPORE (AP) — Government leaders, defense officials, and diplomats from around the world are gathering in Singapore for Asia’s premier security forum this weekend, at a time of increasing tension and competition for influence between the U.S. and China in the Indo-Pacific region.

Beijing in recent years has been rapidly expanding its navy and is becoming increasingly assertive in pressing its claim to virtually the entire South China Sea, leading to more direct conflicts with countries in the region.

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The U.S. has been ramping up military exercises in the region with its allies to emphasize freedom of navigation through contested waters. The Philippines has taken steps to forge new security alliances amid growing tensions.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed concerns over China’s new law regarding foreign ships in its territorial waters.

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With the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China, a low-level confrontation in the South China Sea could escalate into something more serious.

Bilateral contact between the American and Chinese militaries has been restored, with direct talks expected at the Shangri-La dialogue to reduce tensions.

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The dialogue will provide an opportunity for incremental steps in trust-building between the two countries.

Both U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun will address the forum.