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US Defence Secretary William Cohen to Visit Australia for Critical Talks on China and Defence Review

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

US Defence Secretary William Cohen's visit to Australia, scheduled from July 15-17, is expected to focus on critical discussions with defence officials regarding the defence review and security trends in the region. The meetings will also cover bilateral issues such as access to US technology and the Australian Government's Defence White Paper. This visit is significant, given the ongoing tensions between the US and China, particularly with the plans for the US national missile defence system and the US commitment to support Taiwan against Chinese aggression.

Key Takeaways:

  • US Defence Secretary William Cohen will visit Australia from July 15-17 for top-level talks on the defence review and regional security trends.
  • The meetings will cover bilateral issues, including access to US technology and the Australian Government's Defence White Paper.
  • The visit is a timely opportunity for the US to discuss security concerns with Australia, amidst the Clinton administration's final months in office.
  • The talks will include discussions on the US national missile defence system and the US commitment to support Taiwan against Chinese aggression.
  • This visit marks the full resumption of China-US military ties, following a freeze in relations after the accidental US bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade.
  • Defence Minister John Moore expects a wide-ranging discussion with Secretary Cohen, covering security trends and bilateral issues.
  • Secretary Cohen's visit is a significant development in the context of ongoing tensions between the US and China.

Statistics:

  • The visit is scheduled to take place from July 15-17.
  • The meetings will be held in Sydney on Monday, July 17.
  • The US national missile defence system is a key issue on the agenda.
  • The US has committed to support Taiwan against Chinese aggression.
  • The visit marks the full resumption of China-US military ties, after a freeze in relations since the accidental bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade.
  • Credit: [Asia Pulse - July 12]

Sources:

  • Asia Pulse - July 12

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