Officers from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) have confronted Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles at an international security conference over Australia’s criticisms of Beijing’s military build-up, the ABC reports.
Mr Marles, who is also the defence minister, used a speech at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore to call out China for its recent confrontations with Australian naval forces, as well as to express concern over the country’s aggression towards the Philippines and provocation of Taiwan.
“Actions by Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea, such as the use of water cannons and the ramming of Philippine vessels, are a serious escalation of tensions,” Mr Marles told the room of senior defence officials and ministers.
“China’s behaviour towards Taiwan creates similar concerns. People’s Liberation Army exercises that practise attacks and blockades of Taiwan do not inspire confidence that China prioritises — or is planning for — a peaceful settlement to the status of this island and its 22 million people.
“Activities that the Australian Defence Force has conducted in the region for decades, safely and consistent with international law, are increasingly contested by the PLA.”
In response to Mr Marles’s speech, PLA officer Hanwen Ge, who was in the audience, said China cooperated with countries in the region.
“Since the end of the Cold War, China has never been at war against its neighbouring countries,” he said.
“As a sovereign country, China has the natural right to defend its national security.”
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