Australia and New Zealand unite against Chinese threat in the Pacific -

Canberra: Australia and New Zealand declare unison against China, seeking to increase its military influence in the Pacific. At the same time, the Heads of State of the two countries announced their determination to take the cooperation between the two countries to a new height on the regional security front. Meanwhile, the two countries have said they will seek the help of neighbouring democracies against China’s expansionist policies.

On Friday, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited Australia to meet with newly elected Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The two leaders discussed two key issues, including China’s movement in the Pacific islands and climate change. The Australian Prime Minister has accused China of trying to set up a military base in the Pacific by signing a security pact with the Pacific Island nations.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Albany said Australia and New Zealand have united against China’s expansionist measures. However, he declined to state what steps Australia and New Zealand would take. But Prime Minister Albany said the two countries would soon work to increase cooperation on regional security issues. Last week, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a state visit to the Pacific. China was preparing to sign security agreements with other islands, such as the Solomon Islands. But the Pacific Island nation, wary of the Solomon Islands’ experience, rejected China’s offer. This was a significant setback for China, preparing to expand its influence in the Pacific.

Around the same time, a Chinese fighter jet made a dangerous flight over an Australian aircraft patrolling the South China Sea. Australia has strongly criticized China’s provocative action.

Meanwhile, as leaders of Australia and New Zealand demonstrated their solidarity against China, news of a meeting between the US and Chinese defence ministers broke.