Australian Defense Minister Monitors Chinese Navy Task Group
Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles announced on Thursday that the country is closely monitoring a Chinese navy task group operating within Australia's exclusive economic zone off its east coast. He emphasized that the ships posed no immediate threat as they had not violated any maritime laws.
The task group, consisting of a frigate, cruiser, and replenishment vessel, entered Australia's maritime approaches last week. The frigate notably transited the Torres Strait between Australia and Papua New Guinea. It has since moved south, sailing within 150 nautical miles of the coast of Sydney, according to a report by the Financial Times.
"We are keeping a close watch on them and we will be making sure that we watch every move," Marles stated. "And whenever this mission is over on the part of the Chinese task group, we will assess everything we have seen to make a proper assessment of exactly what they were trying to achieve through this mission."
Marles confirmed that Australia's air force and navy are actively monitoring the Chinese vessels. He acknowledged that while the presence of the task group is not unprecedented, it is an unusual event. He emphasized Australia's right to exercise prudence and conduct surveillance, just as China has the right to operate in international waters.
The appearance of the Chinese ships follows Australia's recent concerns raised with Beijing regarding "unsafe and unprofessional" actions by a Chinese fighter jet towards an Australian maritime patrol aircraft in the South China Sea. China has disputed this account.
Amidst China's efforts to expand its influence in the Pacific, Australia and the United States, who have traditionally viewed the region as their sphere of influence, are actively seeking to deter Pacific island nations from forming security ties with China.
Marles is scheduled to meet with his Papua New Guinean counterpart, Billy Joseph, on Thursday to discuss the possibility of a bilateral defense treaty between the two countries.
5 Comments
Coccinella
“It’s refreshing to see a measured response. Australia respects international law while safeguarding their interests.”
Noir Black
“It looks like a thinly veiled attempt to undermine China’s influence rather than protect Australia’s national interest.”
Loubianka
“If there’s even a hint of unprofessional behavior, it’s best to keep tabs on it. Better safe than sorry!”
Noir Black
“It’s hypocritical—China gets to expand in the Pacific but any movement on Australia’s side gets painted as a threat.”
KittyKat
“Monitoring a group in international waters seems like a pretense—if there’s no violation, why make a fuss?”