China accuses Australia of ‘exaggerating’ South China Sea tensions as ASEAN leaders meet

Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong speaks during the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with Australia on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines Wednesday, July 22, 2026. (Ted Aljibe/Pool Photo via AP) Credit: Ted Aljibe/Ted Aljibe/Pool AFP via AP

Tensions in the South China Sea took centre stage at the ASEAN Regional Summit in Manila, with Australia raising concerns over China’s military activities in the region. As countries discuss the importance of regional stability and respect for international law, Russia is also seeking to strengthen its ties with ASEAN members. This report explores the competing interests shaping security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.

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