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Australian officials have attended the 23rd China-Australia Defense Strategic Dialogue in Beijing, following recent altercations between military aircraft of both countries in the South China Sea.
The Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Air Marshal Robert Chipman AO CSC, and Deputy Secretary Strategy, Policy and Industry Group, Hugh Jeffrey, led the Australian delegation at the meeting on February 17.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief of the Joint Staff Department, General Xu Qiling, who led China’s delegation. The Dialogue was last held in 2019.
“The two sides exchanged in-depth views on the relations between the two countries and two militaries, regional security and other issues of common concern, and agreed to continue strengthening strategic communication in the defence field, properly handle disputes and differences, and carry out exchanges and cooperation,” according to the PLA Ministry of National Defense.
Earlier this month, the Australian Government announced that it was protesting “unsafe and unprofessional” behaviour of a People’s Liberation Army Air Force J-16 fighter aircraft which dropped flares in close proximity to a RAAF P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, during a routine maritime surveillance patrol in the South China Sea on 11 February 2025
In addition, Defence released a statement on 13 February confirming that a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) task group is operating to the north-east of Australia. The warships are being monitored by maritime surveillance activities in the region.
“At today’s Dialogue (February 17), both countries exchanged views on bilateral, global and regional security issues, as well as military transparency and communication,” according to a Defence statement regarding the 23rd China-Australia Defense Strategic Dialogue.
“Australia reiterated the importance of all countries in the region operating in a safe and professional manner at all times to avoid the risk of miscalculation or escalation.
“Australia underscored the importance of adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas.
“Australia affirmed the importance of all countries acting in a manner that respects sovereignty and upholds peace, security and stability.”
The PRC Ministry of Defense has also recently announced the disruption of a Canadian frigate, which was sailing through the Taiwan Strait earlier this month. The PLA deployed naval and air forces to monitor and remain on alert during the encounter.
