Australia, US, and Japan Strengthening Defense Structures in the Indo-Pacific Region
The commitment to ensuring the right of passage in the South China Sea remains strong among the United States, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines, despite objections from Beijing.
During a meeting on May 2 in Hawaii, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, Japanese Defence Minister Kihara Minoru, and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III reaffirmed their dedication to promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of Beijing’s aggressive actions in the South and East China Seas.
The ministers condemned Beijing’s destabilizing activities in the South China Sea, including unsafe encounters at sea and in the air, the militarization of disputed areas, and the use of coast guard vessels and maritime militia in a dangerous manner.
They also agreed to work on establishing a networked air defense system to counter emerging air and missile threats, with plans for a joint air and missile defense exercise in 2027.
Further discussions focused on deepening collaboration with Pacific island nations, condemning North Korea’s missile launches, and addressing concerns over Beijing’s obstruction of Philippine vessels in the South China Sea.
Despite Beijing’s claims of control over the region, the ministers stressed the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and international maritime laws, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Australia, in particular, has been vocal in advocating for the protection of maritime rights and freedom in the South China Sea, standing alongside the Philippines in calling for respect for international law.
The commitment to asserting freedom of navigation and upholding the rules-based order in the region remains firm among the four nations, with ongoing cooperation and support for each other’s efforts to defend shared interests in the Indo-Pacific.
