Beijing sees nearly all the strategic waterways as its own and has built up its forces.(Supplied: Defence.gov.au)
ABC News Australia: Indonesia commits to South China Sea defence with US as India and Germany send warships to the region
United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has announced the launch of a "strategic dialogue" with Indonesia on issues that include defending freedom of navigation in the South China Sea.
Indonesia is the largest country and economy in the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a bloc Washington sees as key to its efforts to stand up to China's growing influence in Asia.
Meeting in Washington, Mr Blinken and Indonesian Foreign Minster Retno Marsudi also committed to work together against COVID-19 and the climate crisis and to boost bilateral trade and economic ties, the State Department said.
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WNU Editor: China has decided to hold its own drills in the South China Sea .... PLA holds large drills amid military threats (Global Times).
More News On Naval Buildups Continuing In The South China Sea
Germany wades warily into South China Sea fray -- Asia Times
India deploys warships in South China Sea as part of 'Act East' policy -- Reuters
India military seeks to bolster ‘Act East’ policy with naval deployment to South China Sea -- RT
US, Indonesia commit to defence of South China Sea -- Straits Times/Reuters
U.S. Will Continue to Operate in South China Sea to Ensure Prosperity for All -- US Department of Defense
