Australia news live: China hits back at Penny Wong’s comments; Victorian teachers due to begin strike | Australia news

According to the Australian Associated Press, Australia does not rule out increasing joint patrols in the South China Sea following “destabilizing” missile tests in the region.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Penny WongLast night, I was asked about the potential for more regular regional maritime patrols with the US and Japan following China’s launch of nuclear-capable missiles.

“The maritime zone is critical to stability in the region, so I’m sure when we talk about the South China Sea it’s something we all have to keep in mind,” he told reporters in Manila, where he attended a meeting of Asean foreign ministers.

“We’re concerned about some of the aggression we’re seeing, some of the destabilizing behavior we’re seeing, and countries in the region have a choice about how we all respond to that.”

Senator Wong met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of talks on Tuesday evening to highlight his concerns.

“You talk about the importance of mutual understanding,” he said.

“I agree and hope that we will discuss our concerns, including peace and stability in our region, safe and professional military management, and the importance of transparency and assurance of intent.”

China’s foreign ministry responded to Wong’s comments, saying Australia was not a party to the South China Sea issue and had no right to intervene.

“China urges relevant countries to stop escalating tensions and provoking conflict,” spokesman Lin Jian said at a regular briefing in Beijing.

It comes as Wong prepares to warn China in a speech today that Australia will not be bullied by Beijing as it builds up its military might.