Ministerial consultations on foreign affairs and defense between the United States and Australia were held. With China intensifying its military activities in mind, the United States increased its military presence in Australia and strengthened defense cooperation among the three nations, including Japan. We agreed on the policy to
The U.S.-Australia Foreign and Defense Ministerial Talks, the so-called "2 plus 2," were held on the 6th in Washington, D.C., attended by Secretary of State Brinken and Secretary of Defense Austin from the U.S. side, and Foreign Minister Wong and Defense Minister Mars from the Australian side. opened.
At a press conference after the meeting, Secretary Austin said, "China is taking dangerous and coercive actions in the Indo-Pacific region, including the area around Taiwan, and is threatening peace and stability." I made it clear that I was in agreement.
Specifically, it means increasing the number of US military bombers and fighters deployed in Australia.
In addition, he confirmed the policy of strengthening the defense cooperation of the three countries including Japan and called on Japan to expand its participation in military exercises conducted by the United States and Australia.
Australia's Defense Minister Mars said he would visit Japan this week and said, "I would like Japan to participate more in exercises with Australia and the United States."