Australia calls for more transparency from China on military activities

Reuters
Reuters

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles has urged China to be more transparent about its military build-up and operations, calling for better communication amid rising concerns over Beijing’s presence in the Pacific.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles has called on China to increase transparency around its military expansion and activities, as Pacific nations respond to Beijing’s growing assertiveness. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Marles stressed the need for clearer communication to ensure a productive Australia-China relationship.

He cited China’s recent live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, which disrupted 49 flights and sparked concern in Australia and New Zealand due to short notice. While the drills followed international law, Marles said they should have been conducted with less disruption.

He also confirmed Australia closely tracked the Chinese warships during their activities. Marles emphasized the need for strategic reassurance from China as it modernizes its military.

Amid China's rising influence, Australia is boosting its defence capabilities, including a record deal to purchase nuclear-powered submarines from the US and increasing defence spending to 2.4% of GDP by the 2030s.

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