The G7 leaders are working to contain China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific area, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has thrown his support behind them.
The G7 leaders advocated for a “free and open Indo Pacific” in a statement and expressed “serious concerns” over China’s maritime activity in the South and East China seas.
The presidents criticised Beijing for its “economic coercion” and asked it to “play by international rules” by not using trade sanctions to influence other nations, such as Australia.
The G7 leaders also urged a “peaceful resolution” to the Taiwan dispute, which has persisted since the communists took control of the Chinese mainland in 1949.
The words made by leaders on China, according to Albanese, a guest at the G7 summit, were consistent with Australia’s position.
He stated that China’s aggression in the Indo Pacific, which has included Chinese vessels intercepting Australian military aircraft, was causing Australia alarm.
“We have stated for a while that China’s behaviour, as well as our own concern over the chafing of one of our aircraft and other activities, has caused us to be concerned.
“We have previously expressed our concern, and we will do it again. What we must do is make sure that our efforts advance the region’s peace, security, and stability.
Australia’s view has always been that “we very clearly support the status quo when it comes to the Taiwan Straits”
The leaders of the Quad nations—Australia, the United States, India, and Japan—also urged for “a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient” when they met overnight on the sidelines of the G7 summit.
The leaders got together after the Sydney Opera House summit that was scheduled for next week was postponed.
Although China was not mentioned in the Quad leaders’ statement, according to journalist Charles Croucher, the aspirations of the burgeoning powerhouse took up a significant portion of the discussion.
The next statement was devoid of cohesiveness and any intimidation, despite the Quad asking for a peaceful, wealthy, and stable region.
“I don’t believe you need to look very far to discover who they are referring to.
In order to restrain China, not just now but also in the future, the Quad brought together four Pacific-regional countries and democracies to form a single front.
US President Joe Biden met with Albanese outside of the conference in lieu of his now-cancelled trip to Australia.
As China continues to consolidate its position in the region, the meeting’s main concern was the stability of the Indo-Pacific.
Biden expressed regret about missing Australia. Albanese claimed to comprehend the situation.
He told Biden, “I would have done exactly the same thing,” adding, “I’m very much looking forward to the state visit.”
As they both want to reduce dependency on China for supply, the presidents agreed to strengthen their relationship in creating the raw materials needed for renewable energy technology. They also released a joint statement describing fresh spheres of defence, commerce, and space cooperation.
During a news conference, Albanese stated, “This is about providing a tremendous opportunity for Australia and I can’t underscore how significant this is.
“I want to thank Vice President Biden for it.”
In order to provide “economic support, social support, and environmental support,” a renewable energy agreement was also struck with Biden.
It will pool resources and make it possible for supply chains for renewable energy to grow.
For the purposes of the Defence Production Act, Albanese stated, “The president will support the [US] Congress taking action to treat Australian suppliers and activity as domestic activity in the United States.”
