Opinion
Washington sees in Canberra the independent ally it needs
Australia has been both out in front of Washington and unwilling to fall in behind it. That is healthy for regional security.
Richard FontaineContributorThe just-concluded Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations demonstrated strong alliance ties, and not only because Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Linda Reynolds flew through a global pandemic to take part.
For all of the natural focus on global health and regional development, and with nary a word about the Middle East in the joint statement, it was Chinese assertiveness that concentrated ministerial minds this year. And it was quickly clear that Australia’s new, first-mover role is unique among American allies.
Subscribe to gift this article
Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.
Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber?
Introducing your Newsfeed
Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.
Find out moreRead More
Latest In Foreign affairs & security
Fetching latest articles