Beijing Aggression Has Turned Australia Into Crucial Pillar of US Defense: Expert

[claireokc]

The emergence of a more authoritarian and militarising Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has transformed Australia into a crucial component of America’s defence plans to maintain its influence over the Pacific. John Blaxland, professor of international security and intelligence studies at the Australian National University, told The Epoch Times that middle powers were stepping up as the United States wrestled with its position in the international community. “Geo-strategically, and as a backup to the United States, Australia’s become more significant than ever for America’s plans and contingencies,” the former head of the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre said. “And that’s, I think, in part because of the rise of China. The emergence of a more authoritarian and powerful, increasingly militarised state that is much more prepared to throw its weight around than we had previously anticipated.” ...

Source: https://www.theepochtimes.com/beijing-a ... 73467.html