Australia, Philippines Upgrade Defense Ties With Focus on China

Australia and the Philippines have strengthened their defense ties, signing a new pact designed to counter the growing assertiveness of China in the Asia-Pacific region. The Defence Cooperation Agreement, signed at an Australian naval vessel in Manila, aims to enhance military infrastructure and improve maritime awareness and information sharing.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted that this collaboration will contribute to a safer, more secure, and more prosperous region. The Philippine Defense Secretary, Gilberto Teodoro, emphasized that the agreement will streamline coordination processes, including in maritime, land, and air domains.

The Philippines and China have had recurring territorial disputes in the South China Sea, but Albanese clarified that the new pact is not directed at any specific nation. Australia, along with the US and Japan, has been increasing support for the Philippines, including for its coast guard and navy. This security upgrade coincides with the Philippines hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit and China hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in Shenzhen.

Both Albanese and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. are set to meet with Chinese officials during this week.

The defense ministers of Australia, the US, Japan, and the Philippines, known as the Squad, recently discussed their concerns over tensions in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, including opposition to any unilateral actions that could escalate tensions and undermine regional stability. Australia has been investing in defense infrastructure in the Philippines and providing drones and other support to the coast guard.

Albanese has scheduled meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang later this week during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in China, where they will discuss various issues, including regional security and freedom of navigation.