Australia Challenges China on Military Growth Amid Regional Tensions

At the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles urged China to justify its significant military build-up, emphasizing the need for strategic transparency. Meanwhile, the Philippines' Defence Minister criticized China's actions in the South China Sea as reckless.

Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles has made a strong appeal to China regarding its rapid military expansion, labeling it an "extraordinary military build-up" that demands explanation and transparency. Speaking on the sidelines of the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, Marles stated that China's military growth has become a "fundamental issue" for stability in Asia, underscoring the need for greater clarity on Beijing's strategic intentions.

The dialogue, organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, showcased rising tensions in the region, particularly as US and allied nations voiced concerns about China's military assertiveness. China's delegation this year was notably lower in stature and opted out of delivering a speech, paving the way for criticism from those present.

Marles described the current military buildup in China as the most significant increase in conventional military capability since World War II. He emphasized that the lack of strategic reassurance from Beijing is alarming, calling for China to openly communicate its intentions regarding its military expansion. He highlighted Australia's own commitment to transparency in defense strategies, which aims to provide security assurances to neighboring countries.

Commenting on recent Chinese military exercises near Australian and New Zealand waters, Marles indicated that while disruptive, they were conducted in accordance with international law. He reiterated the importance of maintaining a rules-based order, a theme echoed by the Philippines' Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr, who labeled China's actions in the South China Sea as "absolutely irresponsible and reckless."

Teodoro's remarks came as tensions between the Philippines and China continue over disputed territorial claims. He urged a unified international response to uphold an order that respects freedom and human dignity, particularly emphasizing the critical role of European and American leadership in the region.

The dialogue also included comments from US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who raised alarms about China's intentions towards Taiwan, stressing the need for heightened defense efforts among allies. China responded defensively, accusing Hegseth of vilifying its actions and defending its claims over Taiwan as a domestic affair.

This situation reflects the broader geopolitical struggle in the Asia-Pacific region, as nations navigate their security strategies in the wake of China's military ambitions and assertive foreign policy approaches.