Australia’s Defence Minister, Richard Marles, has responded to growing concerns about Chinese espionage during the ongoing Operation Talisman Sabre military exercises, which involve more than 30,000 personnel from 19 nations across Australia.
While speaking on the Today show, Marles emphasized that China is not currently observing the large-scale exercises, but acknowledged that this might change in the coming days. “Countries have a right to observe military exercises as long as they do so in accordance with international law,” he said.
The joint military drills, running from mid-July to early August, are part of a long-standing bilateral training program between Australia, the United States, and allied nations. The exercises are taking place at several key locations, focusing on coordination, humanitarian assistance, and advanced military operations.
Despite the absence of direct Chinese observation at present, Marles indicated that there is always the possibility of such actions. “It might happen over the coming days and weeks,” he stated. “But we’ll ensure that everything remains transparent and in line with international standards.”
The Defence Minister also addressed concerns related to China’s military actions in Australian waters. Specifically, he pointed to the live-fire drills conducted by Chinese naval vessels off the Australian coast earlier this year. Marles highlighted that Australia would have preferred more notice from Beijing regarding these exercises. “We would certainly give more notice, and it is a point that we’ve raised with China,” he added.
In the context of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Marles reaffirmed Australia’s stance on maintaining its commitment to international maritime law. He pointed out that Australian warships often operate in areas near Chinese territorial waters, such as the South China Sea, in support of freedom of navigation.
The Defence Minister noted that while China and Australia have a complex and evolving relationship, it is essential to uphold peace and stability in the region. “We must respect each other’s rights and ensure our actions are consistent with international law,” Marles concluded.
