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U.S. Marines, alongside Japanese and Australian forces, will engage in joint military training in northern Australia, the countries’ defense ministers announced on Sunday. The move comes amid growing concerns over China’s assertive military activities in the East and South China seas.
Australia’s Acting Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Richard Marles, hosted U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen for discussions in Darwin, Australia.
The trilateral exercises will begin in 2025 with the inclusion of a joint amphibious training program during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Additionally, Australia is set to join Japan’s Exercise Orient Shield for the first time next year.
In a joint statement, the ministers emphasized their commitment to maintaining regional stability through coordinated policies and consultations on security issues. They also expressed “serious concern” about destabilizing actions in the East and South China seas, particularly citing “dangerous conduct” by China against vessels from the Philippines and other nations.
The South China Sea, claimed almost entirely by China, remains a hotspot of tension. The ministers reaffirmed their opposition to any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion, advocating for the protection of rights and freedoms under international law.
The statement also highlighted the need for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, amid China’s increased military presence around the self-governed island, which Beijing considers its territory.
Marles noted the significance of deepening ties between Japan, Australia, and the U.S., describing the joint training as a “fantastic opportunity” to enhance military cooperation. When asked about potential reactions from China, he framed the initiative as fostering stronger relationships with allies and like-minded nations rather than targeting any specific country.
