Australia Hosts ASEAN Summit, Focuses on Maritime Security and Regional Ties

The summit in Melbourne aims to strengthen economic and security relationships, amidst concerns over China's assertiveness and the crisis in Myanmar.

Australia is not an ASEAN member but is hosting a summit for leaders from nine ASEAN countries, focusing on enhancing maritime security and regional cooperation.
Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong announced a $186.7 million initiative to boost maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, in response to China's growing assertiveness.
The summit marks 50 years since Australia became ASEAN's first dialogue partner, with discussions likely to address China's territorial claims and the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.
Myanmar was excluded from the summit due to ongoing violence, while Timor-Leste, aspiring to join ASEAN, participates as an observer.
Analysts emphasize the need for Australia to navigate its relations with ASEAN countries carefully, given the region's diverse ties to China and internal divisions over how to approach Beijing.