Australia and Philippines near defence pact amid South China Sea tensions
Australia and the Philippines are expected to sign a major defence cooperation agreement in Manila on Sunday, in a move aimed at strengthening the Philippine navy and coastguard. The deal is set to be announced as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets senior Philippine officials on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit. It comes as tensions remain high between the Philippines and China over the South China Sea.The agreement is expected to expand reciprocal military access and information sharing between the two countries. It is also intended to support the Philippines' maritime security capabilities, particularly its navy and coastguard. The timing... [Continue Reading]
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