Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong has reaffirmed the country's support for the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling on the South China Sea, emphasizing the importance of international law in maintaining regional security and trade.
Ms. Wong made the statement at a forum in Manila, citing the disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz caused by the Iran war as an example of the consequences of weaponizing sea lanes.
"People suffer when a strait is weaponized," Ms. Wong said. "And we all know that the cost of tolls on any chokepoint is not solely economic. People depend on straits and sea lanes remaining open."
Australia's partnerships with countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have helped maintain trade in essential fuels and fertilizers, with Australia supplying a significant portion of the Philippines' liquefied natural gas, beef, and wheat imports.
"This is an example of what we mean when we say Australia's future depends on the countries of ASEAN," Ms. Wong said. "And the countries of ASEAN can depend on Australia."
Australia's two-way trade with ASEAN has reached a record A$200 billion, while investments are approaching A$300 billion. Ms. Wong reiterated Australia's support for freedom of navigation, adherence to international law, and professional conduct at sea and in the air.
She also backed efforts to conclude a Code of Conduct for the South China Sea, stating that it should not derogate from any rights under international law. Australia is expanding maritime cooperation with the Philippines, including additional funding for the Philippine Coast Guard and drone technology.
About 30 countries are participating in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, where discussions have focused on the Middle East war, the South China Sea, energy security, and supply chain resilience.
Australia and the Philippines are also marking 80 years of diplomatic relations this year.
The Philippines and Sweden have agreed to expand defense cooperation through closer collaboration on maritime security, cybersecurity, civil defense, and military modernization, while exploring an agreement to protect classified information.
Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. said the two sides held "very frank and candid" discussions on strengthening bilateral defense ties based on shared values, trust, and support for a rules-based international order.
The Philippines is close to deploying a defense attaché and support staff to Sweden, which is an important step in deepening military relations. The two countries also discussed expanding cooperation in cybersecurity, cognitive warfare, maritime surveillance, civil defense, and disaster preparedness.
Mr. Teodoro said the Philippines is seeking long-term defense industrial partnerships instead of limiting ties to weapon procurement. He emphasized the need for co-production, research, and development investments to build a sustainable domestic defense industry.
Sweden's Indo-Pacific Defense Strategy, launched in 2024, has expanded defense engagement with countries in the region, including the Philippines. Mr. Jonson said Russia's invasion of Ukraine has reinforced the strategic link between the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions, making cooperation in Asia increasingly important for Sweden.
Asked about Sweden's offer of Gripen fighter aircraft to the Philippines, Mr. Jonson said the decision rests with the Philippine government. He added that defense procurement was not the primary purpose of his visit.
Separately, Defense Secretary Teodoro accused Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian of violating an agreement to keep confidential the details of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s recent meeting with the envoy following the maritime incident near Second Thomas Shoal.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately reply to a message seeking comment.
