Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles has urged China to clarify its substantial military build-up, a matter he describes as critical for regional security. Addressing reporters during an Asian defence summit in Singapore, Marles emphasized the need for transparency and clear intent from Beijing regarding its military expansion. This military buildup is seen as unprecedented since World War II, raising alarms among neighboring nations.
Philippines Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. echoed this sentiment, calling China's actions in the South China Sea "absolutely irresponsible." Both leaders aimed to highlight the importance of maintaining a rules-based order in the region amid rising tensions.
The Shangri-La Dialogue has historically focused on the balance of power between the US and China. This year, with a diminished Chinese delegation, criticism of China's military actions has intensified. Marles pointed out Australia's approach to transparency in its defense strategy, contrasting it with China's opaque military expansion.
Marles also discussed the necessity of compliance with international law in military exercises, while addressing calls from US officials for increased defense spending in response to China's assertiveness. Additionally, he noted ongoing collaborations under the Aukus pact aimed at bolstering military capabilities in the region.
Teodoro emphasized that the international community cannot overlook China's aggressive maneuvers, asserting that emerging leaders from Europe and the US must play a crucial role in safeguarding regional stability. The summit highlighted raised tensions with China, with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warning against potential threats posed by Beijing, particularly towards Taiwan. As discussions continue, the global community remains vigilant about the shifting power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.
Philippines Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. echoed this sentiment, calling China's actions in the South China Sea "absolutely irresponsible." Both leaders aimed to highlight the importance of maintaining a rules-based order in the region amid rising tensions.
The Shangri-La Dialogue has historically focused on the balance of power between the US and China. This year, with a diminished Chinese delegation, criticism of China's military actions has intensified. Marles pointed out Australia's approach to transparency in its defense strategy, contrasting it with China's opaque military expansion.
Marles also discussed the necessity of compliance with international law in military exercises, while addressing calls from US officials for increased defense spending in response to China's assertiveness. Additionally, he noted ongoing collaborations under the Aukus pact aimed at bolstering military capabilities in the region.
Teodoro emphasized that the international community cannot overlook China's aggressive maneuvers, asserting that emerging leaders from Europe and the US must play a crucial role in safeguarding regional stability. The summit highlighted raised tensions with China, with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warning against potential threats posed by Beijing, particularly towards Taiwan. As discussions continue, the global community remains vigilant about the shifting power dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.
