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Australian Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston has met with leadership from the People’s Liberation Army in Beijing.
ADML Johnston met with the Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff Department, General Liu Zhenli, in the People’s Republic of China capital on 13 August.
The meeting follows attendance from both nations at the 23rd Australia-China Strategic Dialogue in February earlier this year.
“Admiral Johnston and General Liu exchanged views on bilateral, global and regional security issues, as well as the need for military transparency and communication,” according to a statement published by the Department of Defence.
“Australia reiterated the importance of all countries in the region operating in a safe and professional manner at all times to avoid the risk of miscalculation or escalation.
“Australia reiterated the importance of adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas.
“Australia affirmed the importance of all countries acting in a manner that respects sovereignty and upholds peace, security and stability.”
The actions of the People’s Liberation Army Navy have recently made international headlines after a Chinese Coast Guard ship and Navy warship collided while tailing a Filipino patrol boat in the South China Sea.
The incident occurred near the Scarborough Shoal, which is contested by the PRC and Philippines governments.
