Lead

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong met her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Manila on the sidelines of the Asean foreign ministers' meeting, where she raised Australia's concerns about China's recent test of a nuclear-capable submarine-launched missile. The meeting, their 12th, also covered Asean priorities and the importance of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, according to a statement from Australia's foreign affairs department.

Coverage Comparison

Reports of the meeting highlight differing emphases. The Guardian reported that Wong raised Australia's concerns about China's test of a nuclear-capable submarine-launched missile earlier this month, and noted the strong concerns expressed by many Pacific Island countries. The Guardian also reported that Wong raised consular issues, including the case of Dr Yang Jun, respect for Australia's laws, sovereignty and freedom of expression, the importance of safe and professional maritime conduct, and human rights.

The South China Morning Post reported that Wang Yi urged Australia to give up 'double standards' and join efforts to maintain the momentum of improving bilateral ties. According to a Chinese foreign ministry release quoted by the Post, Wang said Canberra and Beijing should address differences on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and expressed hope that Australia would uphold the principle of non-interference in internal affairs and abandon double standards. The Post noted that Wong reiterated Australia's consistent approach towards Beijing, according to a transcript of opening remarks released by the Australian foreign ministry.

The Guardian also reported on a planned speech by Wong in the Philippines, in which she would warn China that Australia and other neighbouring nations will not be bullied by its 'provocative' actions, after its involvement in another 'destabilising and dangerous' incident this week. The speech, scheduled for Thursday, was set to coincide with the 59th Asean foreign ministers' meeting.

Key Claims

  • Wong raised Australia's concerns about China's test of a nuclear-capable submarine-launched missile during her meeting with Wang Yi, as reported by The Guardian.
  • Wang Yi urged Australia to give up 'double standards' and join efforts to maintain the momentum of improving bilateral ties, according to the South China Morning Post, quoting a Chinese foreign ministry release.
  • Wong reiterated Australia's consistent approach towards Beijing, as reported by the South China Morning Post, citing a transcript of opening remarks released by the Australian foreign ministry.
  • A clash occurred between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea, reported solely by The Guardian, which said the Philippine military accused the China Coast Guard of clubbing a Filipino sailor with a baton on a disputed shoal.
  • The US condemned Beijing's 'dangerous and aggressive actions', a claim carried by The Guardian.
  • Wong planned to warn China about its 'provocative' actions, as reported by The Guardian ahead of her Thursday address.
  • China launched a nuclear-capable submarine-launched missile in the South China Sea, as reported by The Guardian.

Perspectives

Australia

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong raised concerns about China's missile test and other regional conduct, describing some actions as 'provocative' and 'destabilising and dangerous'. According to The Guardian, Wong said the missile test 'came with too little information and notification' and occurred in the context of China's rapid military buildup without the transparency or reassurance the region expects.

China

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Australia to give up 'double standards' and work to maintain the momentum of improving bilateral ties. According to the South China Morning Post, Wang said both sides should seek common ground while managing disagreements and foster a virtuous cycle of positive growth in relations, rather than allowing them to be disrupted or undermined by prejudice.