Australia, Vietnam boost military ties in nod to China

Australia and Vietnam pledged on Tuesday to bolster military cooperation as both nations confront China's expanding influence in the Pacific and the South China Sea. During talks in Canberra, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Vietnamese President To Lam announced intensified defense force collaboration on maritime security and joint training exercises.

Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the importance of strengthened ties between friends to address the challenges of an uncertain world, covering economic, social, and environmental fronts.

Vietnam's visit to Australia aligns with both countries' resistance to China's growing military presence in the region. Vietnam asserts territorial claims over the South China Sea despite an international ruling against its claim. Australia is concurrently expanding its defense forces and welcoming a U.S. military presence to counter China's build-up.

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles highlighted that the enhanced cooperation with Vietnam would directly bolster regional stability and security. The announcement was made alongside other agreements between Canberra and Hanoi, such as committing to deepen economic resilience and restarting market access for Australian game meat, including kangaroo, in Vietnam.