Australia and the United States have agreed to strengthen their defence cooperation as China continues to expand its influence across the Pacific region.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said after meeting U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington that the American military presence in Australia was growing across several areas.
The increased cooperation could lead to a broader U.S. military presence in Australia, although Marles did not provide details on whether additional American troops would be stationed in the country. He said further information would be discussed at the next meeting of Australian and U.S. defence ministers later this year.
The two countries already cooperate under the U.S.-Australia Force Posture Initiatives, which allow American forces to train in Australia and store military equipment there. The arrangements also support the rotational deployment of aircraft and logistics for U.S. naval vessels.
Australia and the United States are also partners with Britain in the AUKUS defence pact. U.S. military personnel are currently working at HMAS Stirling on Australia's west coast, where four U.S.-commanded Virginia-class submarines are expected to be based from 2027.
China has criticised AUKUS, describing the agreement as dangerous and warning that it could contribute to an arms race in the region.
Hegseth said the United States and Australia were closely aligned on their defence strategies. He also stressed the importance of allies strengthening their own security capabilities while contributing to collective defence.
The discussions took place as Pacific Island leaders gathered in Palau for the Pacific Islands Forum summit. The meeting has been overshadowed by the absence of several leaders and China's objections to Taiwan's participation.
Australia and the United States have also announced a combined $580 million in funding for Pacific Island countries, as both countries seek to strengthen their engagement in a region where China has expanded its influence through aid, infrastructure projects and grants.
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