The AUKUS disaster, page-106

I don't think it is a case of picking a side - I would call it a response to Chinese aggression

China's Increased Aggression

1. Expansion of Military Presence: China has built and militarized artificial islands in the South China Sea. These islands are equipped with airstrips, radar systems, and missile systems, which bolster China's ability to project power in the region.

2. Aggressive Maritime Claims: China claims almost the entire South China Sea based on the "nine-dash line," which is contested by several countries. This claim has led to increased confrontations with other nations' ships and aircraft operating in the area.

3. Fishing and Resource Extraction: China has increased its activities related to fishing and resource extraction in disputed waters, often leading to clashes with the fishing fleets of other claimant countries.

4. Naval Incidents and Harassment: There have been numerous reports of Chinese naval vessels and coast guard ships harassing or intercepting vessels from other nations operating in the South China Sea.

Responses from Other Countries

1. United States:

   • Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs): The U.S. Navy conducts regular FONOPs in the South China Sea to challenge China's expansive maritime claims and assert international rights to navigate through these waters.
   • Diplomatic Pressure: The U.S. has engaged in diplomatic efforts to rally support from allies and partners and has expressed strong opposition to China's activities in the region.

2. Japan:

   • Support for International Law: Japan has supported the rule of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Japan has also increased its security cooperation with countries in the region.
   • Increased Defense Engagement: Japan has expanded its defense engagement with countries like the Philippines and Vietnam, providing equipment and training.

3. South Korea:

   • Diplomatic Support: South Korea has expressed support for international arbitration and the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea.
   • Regional Cooperation: South Korea has engaged in diplomatic and economic cooperation with other claimant nations to balance China's influence.

4. Vietnam:

   • Military Modernization: Vietnam has been actively modernizing its military capabilities and has increased its naval presence in the South China Sea.
   • Legal and Diplomatic Actions: Vietnam has challenged China's claims through legal and diplomatic channels, including international arbitration.

5. Philippines:

   • International Arbitration: The Philippines successfully challenged China's claims in an international tribunal in 2016, which ruled in favor of the Philippines. China has rejected the ruling.
   • Enhanced Defense Cooperation: The Philippines has strengthened its security ties with the U.S. and other allies, including hosting joint military exercises and receiving military aid.

6. Australia:

   • Diplomatic Pressure and Support: Australia has expressed strong support for the rules-based international order and the rights of nations under UNCLOS. Australia conducts joint military exercises and has engaged in diplomatic initiatives to counterbalance China's actions.

7. India:

   • Strategic Partnerships: India has deepened its strategic partnerships with countries in the region, such as Vietnam and the Philippines, and has voiced support for international norms and maritime freedom.
   • Naval Presence: India has increased its naval engagement in the Indo-Pacific region, including joint exercises and naval visits, to bolster regional security.

8. Malaysia:

   • Diplomatic Engagement: Malaysia has engaged in diplomatic efforts to address disputes and protect its interests in the South China Sea.
   • Strengthening Defense: Malaysia has worked on strengthening its maritime capabilities and has engaged in joint activities with regional partners.

Overall, the response to China's actions in the South China Sea involves a combination of military, diplomatic, and legal strategies aimed at maintaining regional stability and upholding international norms.