The foreign ministers of Australia, India, Japan, and the United States expressed serious concerns about intimidating and dangerous activities in the South China Sea during talks in Tokyo. They condemned unilateral actions to change the status quo by force or coercion, without directly mentioning China. The ministers also criticized the militarization of disputed features and aggressive maneuvers by coast guard and maritime militia vessels in the region.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson accused the Quad of creating tension and inciting confrontation. Chinese vessels have clashed with Philippine ships in the Second Thomas Shoal, although tensions eased after a provisional agreement was reached in July. The Quad group announced plans to enhance maritime security, including improving domain awareness, setting up a maritime legal dialogue, and strengthening partners’ capacity in the region.
The U.S. announced a military command revamp in Japan and other security measures to address threats from China, Russia, and North Korea. The Quad ministers also pledged to enhance cooperation in cybersecurity to protect critical infrastructure and supply chains. Blinken emphasized the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation and the unimpeded flow of lawful maritime commerce in the region.
After the talks in Tokyo, Blinken and Austin will hold security discussions with the Philippines to counter China’s assertive actions. The Biden administration is seeking to strengthen partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region to maintain peace and stability amid growing challenges from China and other countries.
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