Australia and ASEAN establish 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'

Canberra: – Australia and the ASEAN countries have concurred on a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’ in the wake of the growing Chinese activities in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement is supposed to strengthen Australia’s diplomatic and security cooperation with Southeast Asian nations. Australia has announced an investment of $150 million in Southeast Asia under the new agreement.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison explained the importance of the agreement, saying ‘This milestone underscores Australia’s commitment to ASEAN’s central role in the Indo-Pacific and positions our partnership for the future. Australia is aware of ASEAN’s role in the Indo-Pacific and will support peaceful, stable, resilient, and prosperous region, with ASEAN at its heart.’

Southeast Asian nations also welcomed the agreement, saying this agreement was a new phase and would be mutually beneficial. Senior officials from ASEAN member countries have called the deal ‘eye-catching against the background of the AUKUS Deal. After signing an agreement with ASEAN, Australia has announced investing over $150 million in Southeast Asian countries. It has been said that the investment will be in the domain of health, energy, security and education. Meanwhile, it has been reported that China has started trying to reach a similar agreement following the agreement signed by Australia.