Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles said on February 20 that his country and Papua New Guinea will discuss a bilateral comprehensive defense treaty.
He said the two countries had agreed on defense cooperation, but the dialogue would help their armed forces work more closely together. This is one of the treaties that Australia and Papua New Guinea have signed or plan to sign, as China expands its role in Papua New Guinea, according to Reuters.
China's Hengyang frigate passes through the Torres Strait off the coast of Australia on February 11.
On the same day, Sky News quoted Minister Marles as saying that the country was monitoring the "unusual" appearance of three Chinese warships moving off the east coast of Australia. The group of ships included a frigate, a cruiser and a supply ship.
Mr Marles added that the vessels were “not a threat” and were complying with international law. China did not immediately comment on the statement.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/nhieu-dien-bien-ve-an-ninh-o-nam-thai-binh-duong-185250220214925078.htm
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