- AUSMIN talks currently underway cannot be used as a platform for further militarisation
- Australia should act peacefully with its neighbours not promote confrontation
- Reliance on the U.S. military undermines Australia’s independence and interests
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 13 Sep. 2021
The annual Australia U.S. Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN), which are a central part of the Australia-U.S. alliance, will be held in Washington from September 13 and 17, with current discussions focusing on militarisation and confrontation in the Asia-Pacific region.
Defence Minister Peter Dutton Foreign Affairs and Foreign Minister Marise Payne will meet Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
Dutton has outlined two extremely concerning aims of the talks. First is furthering Australian reliance on the U.S. military, specifically through Australia’s use of U.S. missile and drone technology.
The second area of concern is an escalation of tension in the region and confrontation with China.
Despite AUSMIN always alternating between countries this will be the second year it takes place in the U.S.
IPAN spokesperson, Dr Alison Broinowski, said: “It was only a few weeks ago that a generation-long war in Afghanistan came to an end. Instead of reflecting on the pointlessness and horror of U.S. militarism Australia and the U.S. are already talking about their next military adventure.”
“It is also deeply concerning that our nominal representatives are calling for further integration into the U.S. military through reliance on their capabilities. You can pretty it up by calling it ‘interoperability’ or ‘sharing technology’, but it will essentially result in Australia’s military being dependent on U.S. technology, operational knowledge and support. How can Australia assert an independent and peaceful foreign policy with a military that is so integrated into the U.S.?”
—–ENDS—–
IPAN Media Liaison: 0428 973 324 or ipan.australia@gmail.com