Southeast Asian countries have expressed concern about the new security framework "AUKUS" established by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia with China in mind, which could lead to an arms race and heightened tensions in the region. increase.
"AUKUS" is a new security framework announced on the 15th by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
China and Southeast Asian countries fighting over territorial rights and maritime interests in the South China Sea are worried about AUKUS's intention to deploy nuclear submarines in Australia with China in mind as it strengthens its marine expansion. Is shown.
Among them, Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri said in a telephone conversation with Australian Prime Minister Morrison on the 17th, "The new framework may lead to an arms race for nuclear weapons in the Indo-Pacific region. Will induce "."
In addition, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on the 17th, saying, "I am very concerned that the arms race and the display of military power will continue in this region."
And on the 17th, the Philippines also said in a telephone conversation with Australia's Defense Minister Dutton that "The Philippines wants to maintain good defense relations with all countries in the region," and what is "AUKUS"? He emphasized the attitude of keeping a distance and taking a neutral position.
However, he expressed a certain understanding of the deployment of nuclear-powered submarines in Australia, saying that "improving the defense capabilities of submarines is Australia's right."
A summit meeting of the ASEAN-Association of Southeast Asian Nations is scheduled for the end of next month, and it is expected that discussions will be held on how to deal with "AUKUS".