The 23rd Australia-China Defence Strategic Dialogue was held today in Beijing, China.
The Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Air Marshal Robert Chipman AO CSC, and Deputy Secretary Strategy, Policy and Industry Group, Hugh Jeffrey, led the Australian delegation. General Xu Qiling, Deputy Chief of the Joint Staff Department, led China's delegation.
The Dialogue is a senior officials' meeting between the Department of Defence and China's People's Liberation Army. Prime Minister Albanese and Premier Li Qiang agreed to resume the Dialogue during the Annual Leaders' Meeting in 2024. The Dialogue was last held in 2019.
At today's Dialogue, both countries exchanged views on bilateral, global and regional security issues, as well as military transparency and communication.
Australia reiterated the importance of all countries in the region operating in a safe and professional manner at all times to avoid the risk of miscalculation or escalation.
Australia underscored the importance of adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas.
Australia affirmed the importance of all countries acting in a manner that respects sovereignty and upholds peace, security and stability.
