Australia news live: China hits back at Penny Wong’s comments; Victorian teachers due to begin strike
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has expressed concern over China's recent missile testing and regional aggression, suggesting potential joint maritime patrols. China has responded by criticizing Australia's involvement in South China Sea affairs, labeling it an unnecessary provocation.
Why it matters
The exchange highlights the growing geopolitical friction in the Indo-Pacific region and the increasing difficulty of balancing diplomatic relations with China.
Australia is not ruling out stepping up joint patrols of the South China Sea following “destabilising” missile testing in the region, Australian Associated Press reports.
The foreign minister, Penny Wong , was asked last night about the potential of more regular regional sea patrols in tandem with the United States and Japan, following China’s launching of nuclear-capable missiles.
“The maritime zone is critical to stability in the region so, when we have a conversation about the South China Sea, that is something I’m sure we should all keep in mind,” she told reporters in Manila where she is attending the Asean foreign ministers’ meeting.
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