Canada and Australia have reaffirmed their strong defence partnership following a recent meeting between the Honourable Bill Blair, Canada’s Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Richard Marles, Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence. Their joint statement highlights the deep ties between the two nations, emphasizing their commitment to addressing global challenges together.
Enhancing Military Cooperation
The ministers agreed to strengthen the interoperability of their armed forces. This involves reducing barriers to collaboration, particularly in space, cyber, research, and advanced capabilities. Both countries are dedicated to the Five Eyes intelligence partnership and will work together to ensure their militaries can operate seamlessly.
Focus on the Indo-Pacific Region
Canada and Australia see the Indo-Pacific as very important for their safety. They want the region to be peaceful, stable, and fair, where every country’s borders are respected, and international rules are followed. The ministers stressed that countries in the Indo-Pacific should compete carefully and avoid causing conflicts.
Canada has sent more military forces to the Indo-Pacific as part of its strategy, and Australia is happy about this. Canada’s ships and military activities in the area have opened up more chances for both countries to train together. Australia is also focusing on the Indo-Pacific in its own defence plans, which brings the two countries even closer in their goals.
Joint Exercises and Training
The ministers discussed their countries’ participation in multilateral exercises in the Indo-Pacific. Australia welcomed His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Vancouver’s involvement in the upcoming Exercise KAKADU and the planned ship re-armament activity. Canada’s participation in these exercises highlights the strong defence ties between the two nations.
Australia also looks forward to Canada’s involvement in Exercise TALISMAN SABRE in 2025 and similar future exercises. These joint exercises are crucial for enhancing the interoperability of their armed forces and ensuring they can respond effectively to regional challenges.
Global Security Concerns
The meeting also addressed broader global security issues. Both ministers expressed concern about the deteriorating strategic environments in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. They emphasized that developments in one region directly impact security in the other.
Australia’s contribution to NATO as an Enhanced Opportunities Partner was praised, as it supports a coordinated response to global challenges. The ministers also welcomed NATO’s new projects with its Indo-Pacific partners, focusing on cyber defence, hybrid threats, and resilience.
Stance on Russia and Ukraine
The joint statement reiterated Canada and Australia’s support for a sovereign and independent Ukraine. They condemned Russia’s illegal invasion and remain committed to supporting Ukraine in ending the war on its terms. Both countries are deeply concerned about the increased military cooperation between Russia and North Korea and called on China to use its influence to help end the conflict.
Addressing Maritime Disputes
Canada and Australia are worried about China’s claims in the South China Sea. They stressed that international laws, like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), should be respected. The ministers strongly opposed any actions that could make the area unstable, such as risky maneuvers and putting military bases on disputed islands.
They were also very concerned about China’s recent actions against Philippine ships near the Second Thomas Shoal. These actions could harm peace in the region. Both ministers confirmed that the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award is final and must be followed. They urged for talks to calm the situation.
Cooperation in Cyber and Space
Recognizing the growing threat of cyberattacks, Canada and Australia committed to deepening their cyber cooperation, especially within the Five Eyes partnership. They also reaffirmed their commitment to a secure and stable space domain. As members of the Combined Space Operations Initiative, both countries will work to improve space operations coordination and promote the responsible use of space.
Looking Ahead
The defence partnership between Canada and Australia is stronger than ever. Both countries are committed to working together to address global security challenges, enhance their military capabilities, and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. This collaboration will ensure their armed forces are well-prepared to meet future challenges and protect their shared values.