At the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles expressed grave concerns regarding China's "extraordinary military build-up," urging the nation to clarify its intentions. Marles described the military expansion as a "fundamental issue" for regional stability. He emphasized the need for strategic transparency from China, especially as the buildup is seen as the most significant since World War II. His remarks came alongside statements from Philippine Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr, who criticized China's actions in the South China Sea as "irresponsible and reckless." While China has yet to respond, the absence of its high-level officials at the summit has allowed US and allied nations to dominate discussions on regional security and military conduct. Marles highlighted that Australia's approach to defense transparency provides a model for responsible military engagement that he hopes China will emulate. He also addressed the influence of the US in the region, indicating that Australia is preparing to increase its defense spending, particularly under the AUKUS pact for nuclear-powered submarines. As these discussions unfold, tensions in the region remain high, compounded by China's assertive claims over Taiwan, a point echoed by US officials at the summit.
Australia Urges China for Clarity on Military Buildup
Australia Urges China for Clarity on Military Buildup
Australia voices concerns over China's military expansion during a recent defense summit in Singapore, seeking transparency and reassurance from Beijing.
Australia Urges China for Clarity on Military Buildup
Australia voices concerns over China's military expansion during a recent defense summit in Singapore, seeking transparency and reassurance from Beijing.
At the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles expressed grave concerns regarding China's "extraordinary military build-up," urging the nation to clarify its intentions. Marles described the military expansion as a "fundamental issue" for regional stability. He emphasized the need for strategic transparency from China, especially as the buildup is seen as the most significant since World War II. His remarks came alongside statements from Philippine Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr, who criticized China's actions in the South China Sea as "irresponsible and reckless." While China has yet to respond, the absence of its high-level officials at the summit has allowed US and allied nations to dominate discussions on regional security and military conduct. Marles highlighted that Australia's approach to defense transparency provides a model for responsible military engagement that he hopes China will emulate. He also addressed the influence of the US in the region, indicating that Australia is preparing to increase its defense spending, particularly under the AUKUS pact for nuclear-powered submarines. As these discussions unfold, tensions in the region remain high, compounded by China's assertive claims over Taiwan, a point echoed by US officials at the summit.
Australia voices concerns over China's military expansion during a recent defense summit in Singapore, seeking transparency and reassurance from Beijing.
At the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles expressed grave concerns regarding China's "extraordinary military build-up," urging the nation to clarify its intentions. Marles described the military expansion as a "fundamental issue" for regional stability. He emphasized the need for strategic transparency from China, especially as the buildup is seen as the most significant since World War II. His remarks came alongside statements from Philippine Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr, who criticized China's actions in the South China Sea as "irresponsible and reckless." While China has yet to respond, the absence of its high-level officials at the summit has allowed US and allied nations to dominate discussions on regional security and military conduct. Marles highlighted that Australia's approach to defense transparency provides a model for responsible military engagement that he hopes China will emulate. He also addressed the influence of the US in the region, indicating that Australia is preparing to increase its defense spending, particularly under the AUKUS pact for nuclear-powered submarines. As these discussions unfold, tensions in the region remain high, compounded by China's assertive claims over Taiwan, a point echoed by US officials at the summit.
