Japan, Australia slam China's 'dangerous' actions vs PH in SCS

Japan and Australia have voiced significant worries regarding China's escalating dangerous and coercive actions directed at the Philippines within the South China Sea.

This joint statement was released following a 2+2 ministerial meeting in Victoria, Australia, involving the foreign and defense ministers of both nations.

The ministers specifically noted the "intensification" of these activities towards the Philippines, highlighting their "high frequency."

They opposed any coercive measures that could heighten tensions and disrupt regional stability, particularly the militarization of contested areas.

Both countries emphasized the critical importance of freedom of navigation and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Furthermore, they reaffirmed that the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal ruling is final and legally binding.

Japan and Australia also committed to enhancing their security cooperation, utilizing all available statecraft methods to prevent conflict and preserve peace in the Indo-Pacific region.