Australia sends strong message to both Asean and China

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasised his commitment to Southeast Asia at the close of the Asean-Australia Summit this month. This is in line with his party’s desire to forge closer ties with the region, given Australia’s geographical reality. Australia, in turn, is viewed overwhelmingly through the lens of its close ties with Washington and its other allies.

As Albanese stated, more than any other part of the world, Southeast Asia is where Australia’s destiny lies. It remains the epicentre of the overall Indo-Pacific strategy and stability. For Australia, the region acts as a buffer against China to its north and as a connecting pathway to trade with East Asia.

As Beijing ramps up its bellicose actions in the sea, the legitimacy of Southeast Asian nations’ quest for greater alignment with the West will be naturally bolstered.

The region remains critical to Canberra. Hence, the focus on security issues is inevitable.

This must not be seen as forcing one party to choose one side over another. Recognising the Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ centrality and neutrality is vital for Canberra to maintain buy-in from the region.

Canberra has communicated its commitment to Asean both in economic and security terms. The most significant intent and message was the A$2 billion (HK$10.2 billion) fund to boost trade and investment in Southeast Asia. This comes on top of additional funding for maritime security and infrastructure, and a string of smaller commitments, including the establishment of an Asean-Australia Centre in Canberra.

Australia has succeeded in sending a strong message to both Asean and China.

Collins Chong Yew Keat, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia