Australia, Philippines sign defense pact amid South China Sea tensions; expert questions prospects for ‘Squad’ security grouping

Detailed summary

The Philippines and Australia signed a new defense cooperation agreement on Sunday, in a move to deepen security ties between the two countries. While Canberra insisted that the pact was not directed at any particular country, foreign media widely viewed the deal as being aimed at China.

Global Times reporter covering international affairs, politics and society.

Philippines' Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro (R) and with Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown (L) sign documents while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (C) looks on during the signing of the Defence Cooperation Arrangement at the international port in Manila on November 15, 2026. Photo: VCG

China-Philippines relations are facing malicious interference at present, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday.

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