September 8, 2023 6:09 PM

Australia and Philippines agree to hold annual defence ministers' meetings amid security challenges in China

Australia and the Philippines today agreed to hold annual defence ministers' meetings as the two nations upgraded bilateral ties to a strategic partnership amid rising security challenges in the region, including in the South China Sea.   Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed a strategic partnership agreement with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his trip to Manila, the first visit by an Australian leader in 20 years.   The Philippines last month he...