Pasay city: Visiting Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Wednesday expressed concern over recent developments in the region, citing China's ballistic missile test and an incident involving the Chinese Coast Guard as 'destabilizing and risky'. These incidents have raised tensions, particularly following the injury of a Filipino Navy personnel near Ayungin Shoal.

According to Philippines News Agency, Wong addressed these issues during an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meeting. She also conveyed her concerns directly to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in a bilateral meeting. Wong emphasized Australia's position, stating, "We have made clear publicly and directly to China that we regard the missile test as destabilizing."

The incident near Ayungin Shoal involved a Philippine Navy member who sustained a head injury after being struck with a wooden baton by Chinese Coast Guard personnel. Wong remarked on the broader implications for the South China Sea, asserting that Australia's concerns about the behavior in the region are significant. She reiterated the importance of adhering to international law and urged ASEAN to leverage its influence to address these recurring issues.

Wong further stressed that ASEAN's historical and regional significance enables it to set expectations and engage in diplomacy effectively. She emphasized the need for collective action among regional countries to maintain peace and stability, highlighting the importance of safe and professional conduct in maritime and aerial operations.

The Australian Foreign Minister concluded by noting the aggressive and destabilizing conduct observed in the region and called for a unified response from regional countries to address and mitigate these challenges.