Canada and Australia Signal Increased Military Cooperation in South China Sea

The United States, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines have conducted joint air and sea combat manoeuvres, a move that is likely in response to China's long-standing claim of sovereignty over a significant portion of the South China Sea. This region is a critical global trade and security route. The manoeuvres are part of a broader effort by Canada and Australia to strengthen their military and defense industry cooperation. The two countries, along with the United States, are concerned about China's "excessive maritime claims" in the South China Sea, which they see as a threat to the international system.