Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles has raised concerns over China's extensive military build-up, urging for greater transparency from Beijing to foster regional stability.
Australia Urges China for Clarity on Military Expansion amid Rising Tensions
Australia Urges China for Clarity on Military Expansion amid Rising Tensions
In a significant address during the Shangri-la Dialogue, Australia’s Defence Minister calls for transparency regarding China's military growth.
Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles has called upon China to clarify the reasons behind its "extraordinary military build-up," highlighting it as a pressing issue for the stability of the Asia-Pacific region. During a media briefing at the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Marles stressed the importance of strategic transparency and reassurance from China, emphasizing that the current military escalation poses fundamental challenges to regional security.
Meanwhile, Philippines Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr characterized China's actions in the South China Sea as "absolutely irresponsible and reckless." Both ministers voiced their concerns regarding China's aggressive posture, particularly in light of a recent Chinese military exercise near Australian waters earlier in the year, which Marles acknowledged created disruptions despite adhering to international legal frameworks.
The Shangri-la Dialogue, a prestigious platform for defence discussions, has seen a decreased presence from China this year, allowing the United States and its allies to dominate discussions. Marles remarked that China's military advancements represent the largest conventional military capability increase since World War II, urging Beijing to provide clear strategic intentions behind its expansion efforts.
Marles confirmed that Australia is committed to enhancing its defence capabilities, citing the Aukus pact with the UK and US as a critical component of this strategy, set to improve naval deterrence in the face of China's rising influence. Meanwhile, Teodoro echoed calls from various nations for sustained US leadership to uphold a rules-based international order, condemning China's expansive claims over the South China Sea.
As tensions escalate, the dialogue underscores an urgent need for international cooperation and a response to curtail China's military ambitions and preserve regional stability.
