SOUTH CHINA SEA
The 'intense diplomacy' to stop a US-China war
U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Chinese foreign policy chief Wang Yi held extensive talks in Bangkok to address bilateral tensions. The meetings, initiated after the G20 Bali summit, aimed to prevent conflicts over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Sullivan also met with General Zhang Youxia, marking progress in U.S.-China military communications.
Malaysia says it won't bow to China's demands to halt oil exploration in the South China Sea
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysia will not cease its oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea despite China's demands, as these activities are within Malaysian waters. Anwar emphasized that Malaysia's stance is clear and aims to maintain strong relations with China while securing economic benefits from its territory.
PM Modi takes aim at Beijing's role in South China Sea
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Brunei, emphasized India's support for development over expansionism, indirectly addressing China's actions in the South China Sea. Modi and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah agreed on the importance of maritime safety, freedom of navigation, and peaceful dispute resolution under international law. They also discussed cooperation in fintech, cybersecurity, and energy sectors.
China, Philippines accuse each other of ramming ships in South China Sea
China and the Philippines accuse each other of ramming ships in the disputed South China Sea. The incident near Sabina Shoal, within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, is part of ongoing maritime tensions. Both sides blame each other's vessels for the collision but report no injuries.
US forces ready with a "range of options" to deal with South China Sea aggression, US admiral says
US Admiral Samuel Paparo stated that American forces are prepared with several options to address increasing aggression in the South China Sea if directed to do so, in coordination with treaty ally the Philippines. The Philippines' military chief Gen Romero Brawner Jr highlighted escalating tensions with China and affirmed their capability to defend their waters.
Philippines eyes mid-range missiles, 40 fighter jets to modernise military
The Philippines plans to spend at least $33 billion to upgrade its military with mid-range missiles and advanced fighter jets. Military chief Romeo Brawner and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro have stated the country is reviewing offers to buy weapons. The U.S. and the Philippines are preparing for their largest joint military exercises next year.
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Philippines says US offered to escort supply ships in disputed sea
The United States has offered to assist Manila's resupply missions to contested outposts in the South China Sea amid Beijing's increased attempts to hinder them. However, the Philippines will only accept the offer if essential supplies cannot be delivered independently. Recent incidents highlight escalating tensions between Chinese and Philippine vessels.
Joe Biden 'looking forward' to talks with Xi Jinping in coming weeks: Sullivan
US President Joe Biden anticipates discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in the coming weeks. Jake Sullivan, the first US national security advisor to visit China since 2016, held 14 hours of talks with Xi and other officials, covering topics like Taiwan, the South China Sea, and the Ukraine war. Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining stable and constructive relations.
U.S. sees 'limited' opportunity for talks with China on nuclear arms
The United States is encouraging China to begin nuclear arms talks, with recent limited progress suggesting a potential for further dialogue. The renewed effort coincides with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's visit to Beijing. U.S. officials are seeking to initiate discussions on nuclear strategy and risk reduction measures.
Chinese leader Xi meets with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan in a bid to improve ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan met in Beijing to maintain open communications. Their discussion focused on managing the tense relationship, addressing Taiwan and South China Sea.
China says Taiwan's independence greatest threat to regional stability, but wows no new action
China's foreign minister has stated that Taiwan's independence is the greatest threat to regional stability but committed to avoiding conflict with the US. This statement came during a visit by US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to Beijing. The US emphasised peace across the Taiwan Strait amid growing military tensions and disputes over the South China Sea.
China's Wang Yi warns US official over support to Philippines in sea dispute: State media
China's top diplomat Wang Yi warned US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan against supporting the Philippines in the South China Sea disputes. Wang emphasized China's commitment to its territorial sovereignty during Sullivan's three-day visit to Beijing. The tensions come amid recent accusations from Japan and the Philippines against China for regional disruptions.
China spent $15.3 bln on Pacific exercises in 2023, internal Taiwan estimates show
In 2023, China allocated about $15 billion, or 7% of its defense budget, to military exercises in the Western Pacific, according to a Taiwanese estimate. This investment underscores Beijing's focus on regional military activity amid rising tensions over Taiwan and maritime disputes. Taiwan's internal report highlights China's significant spending on naval and air missions, with more than 1.7 million hours logged at sea. This expenditure contrasts with Taiwan's own defense budget, reflecting the strategic importance China places on the Western Pacific.
Philippine defence chief says China is 'the biggest disruptor' of peace, seeks stronger censure
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has criticized China as "the biggest disruptor" of peace in Southeast Asia, following a recent incident where China blocked Philippine vessels from delivering supplies to a Philippine Coast Guard ship at Sabina Shoal. Speaking at an international military conference in Manila, Teodoro called for stronger international actions against China's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.
Philippines says China 'biggest disruptor' of peace in Southeast Asia
China is posing the greatest threat to peace in Southeast Asia, according to the Philippine defense chief Gilberto Teodoro, speaking on Tuesday. This comment comes amid growing tensions between Manila and Beijing over disputed territories in the South China Sea.
China, Philippines clash in South China Sea despite efforts to rebuild trust
The South China Sea saw another clash between the Philippines and China over a resupply mission for Filipino fishermen. Manila accused China of aggressive tactics, prompting a call for Beijing to cease provocative actions. Chinese ships reportedly used perilous maneuvers, forcing the Philippine Bureau of Fisheries vessel to abandon its mission. The U.S. echoed Manila's concerns, condemning China's actions and seeking regional peace and stability.
China teases New Coast Guard 'mothership': What it means for naval warfare in the Indo-Pacific
China has built the world's first drone carrier, a Yulan-class Landing Helicopter Assault ship, pioneering a new era in naval warfare. This advanced vessel boosts China's amphibious capabilities, potentially targeting Taiwan and the South China Sea. This move could reshape the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific, prompting other nations to reassess their military strategies.
Philippine says China coast guard are hindering confidence-building
The Philippines criticized China's coast guard for undermining confidence-building efforts in the South China Sea, following an incident where Chinese vessels allegedly rammed and damaged Philippine ships near the Sabina Shoal. The altercation occurred during a resupply mission by the Philippines to contested islands in the Spratly chain. The Philippines urged China to adhere to international law and avoid aggressive actions. China disputed Manila's account, accusing the Philippine coast guard of acting dangerously. The incident drew condemnation from the United States and Japan, both of which called for peaceful resolution of disputes.
German warships await orders on crossing sensitive Taiwan Strait
Two German warships are awaiting orders from Berlin to potentially pass through the Taiwan Strait next month, a move that could escalate tensions with Beijing. This would be the German navy's first passage through the strait since 2002. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, which strongly objects to these claims. The German navy aims to demonstrate support for partners and a commitment to international rules.
Philippines, Chinese vessels 'collide' in South China Sea, both countries blame each other
On Monday, the Philippines reported that two of its coast guard vessels were rammed and subjected to aggressive maneuvers by Chinese coast guard ships at Escoda (Sabina) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine vessels, en route to supply Lawak and Patag islands, encountered the Chinese ships early in the morning.
India may sign deal to procure Navy ship antennas from Japan at 2 + 2 meet
Japan intended to supply its advanced naval ship antennas to India, marking the first significant defence export between the two countries. The deal was likely to be announced at the India-Japan 2+2 ministerial meeting in Delhi. This collaboration aimed at improving joint defence operations and reinforcing a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The Chinese base that isn't there
Cambodia's Ream military base saw significant shifts in 2020, with American-funded structures dismantled and Chinese warships becoming regular visitors. This development fits into China's broader strategy of global military expansion. Despite Cambodian government denials, experts worry about the implications of a growing Chinese presence for regional stability and sovereignty.
US Navy's newest air-to-air missile AIM-174B could tilt balance in South China Sea
The U.S. Navy introduced the AIM-174B missile to extend its aerial reach in the Indo-Pacific, surpassing China's capabilities. With a range of 400 km, this missile offers a significant advantage over the Chinese PL-15. Experts suggest this could influence U.S. involvement in regional conflicts and alter Chinese military strategies.
China deploys drones in Vietnamese airspace, experts point to Philippines tie-up
Chinese drones recently entered Vietnamese airspace on August 2 and August 7, coinciding with heightened collaboration between Vietnam and the Philippines. These incursions, involving Wing Loong-10 UAVs from China's Hainan Island, followed joint Coast Guard drills between the two Southeast Asian nations. Vu Duc Khanh, a law professor, suggested that China’s actions are aimed at disrupting regional cooperation. The drills mark a significant step in mutual support against China's expansionist activities in the South China Sea. The Philippines had also engaged in joint maritime exercises with Australia, Canada, and the US, further highlighting the region’s strategic dynamics.
Philippines says actions of China air force 'illegal', 'reckless'
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr criticized Chinese air force maneuvers in the South China Sea as 'unjustified, illegal and reckless.' This followed an encounter where Chinese aircraft dropped flares near a Philippine patrol around the Scarborough Shoal. Marcos called for responsible actions from China amid the ongoing territorial dispute.
Philippine military says Chinese air force jets endangered its patrol plane with flares, risky moves
The Philippine military chief, Gen. Romeo Brawner, condemned provocative actions by two Chinese air force jets that dangerously maneuvered near a Philippine air force plane over the South China Sea, dropping flares in its path. The Philippine NC-212i plane safely returned to Clark Air Base after the incident near Scarborough Shoal. Brawner criticized the Chinese actions as a threat to lawful Philippine operations and international aviation safety. Despite the risks, Brawner affirmed the Philippines' commitment to continue its patrols in the contested waters, reinforcing its rights under international law.
China holds military drills in South China Sea amidst manoeuvres by US, allies
China carried out air and sea combat patrols near Scarborough Shoal - to test "strike capabilities" on the same day that the US, Australia, Canada and Philippines conducted military manoeuvres within Manila's exclusive economic zone.
US, Australia, Canada, Philippines stage naval and air force maneuvers in disputed South China Sea
Naval and air forces from the US, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines carried out joint exercises in the South China Sea, citing a commitment to international law and free navigation. Concurrently, China conducted its own patrols, showcasing ongoing territorial disputes. The maneuvers aim to promote cooperation and avoid further regional conflicts.
China says conducts 'combat patrol' near flashpoint Scarborough Shoal
China conducted a "combat patrol" near Scarborough Shoal testing troops' capabilities, claiming it was a joint patrol in the South China Sea to maintain regional stability. Beijing disputes the international ruling against its claims in the area, blaming recent confrontations with the Philippines on Manila. China asserts its actions in the South China Sea are legal and proportional to protect its sovereignty.
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