Australia asks China to explain 'extraordinary' military build-up

Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles has publicly called on China to explain its massive military build-up, describing it as an 'extraordinary' development that has become a fundamental concern for the entire Asian region. Speaking at the Shangri-la Dialogue, a major Asian defence summit held in Singapore, Marles emphasized the need for China to provide greater transparency and reassurance about its military intentions. At the same time, the Philippines Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr strongly criticized China for what he called 'absolutely irresponsible and reckless' actions in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes have caused tension for years. Both ministers addressed the media separately during the summit, but China has yet to respond to their concerns.

The Shangri-la Dialogue is an important event organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, where defence leaders from across Asia and beyond gather to discuss security issues. Traditionally, the United States and China have been the main players at this event, often presenting competing views on regional security. However, this year China sent a smaller delegation and did not deliver a speech, which allowed the US and its allies to dominate the conversation with pointed criticism of Beijing's military activities. Marles highlighted that China's military expansion is the largest conventional build-up by any country since the end of World War Two. This is not just about the size of the military forces but also about the lack of clear strategic intent or transparency from China. Marles pointed out that Australia, by contrast, openly shares its national defence strategies and reviews to assure its neighbours and the world that its military build-up is for regional security. He urged China to adopt a similar approach to provide strategic clarity and reassurance.

Marles also addressed a recent Chinese military exercise near Australian and New Zealand waters, describing it as disruptive but acknowledging that China acted within international law. He stressed the importance of all countries adhering to a rules-based international order to maintain peace and stability. On the topic of defence spending, Marles confirmed that Australia is taking steps to increase its military budget and is committed to the Aukus pact with the US and the UK, which aims to develop a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. He expressed optimism about the progress of these projects, including increased visits by American submarines to Australia. Meanwhile, the Philippines Defence Minister Teodoro condemned China's aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea, accusing Beijing of appropriating most of the area and warning that the world cannot tolerate such actions. He called on the US and Europe to continue leading efforts to preserve international order and protect the freedoms and dignity of smaller nations. The summit also saw US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth accuse China of becoming a hegemonic power in the region, a claim strongly rejected by China, which accused the US of undermining peace and stability in Asia-Pacific. The discussions highlighted the growing tensions and the urgent need for dialogue and transparency to avoid conflict in the region.