China Trying To Work On Malaysia Counter AUKUS
Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe holds talks with the Malaysian Senior Minister and Defense Minister Hishammuddin Hussein via video link on September 27, 2021
The Defence Minister of Malaysia said that his ministry is planning a visit to China soon to discuss the matter, especially on defense-related issues.
China is Now trying to woe Malaysia to oppose the power politics of AUKUS, strengthen communication between the two countries and properly handle differences on the South China Sea issue. Mr Wei Fenghe, Chinese Defence Minister stated that China wishes to jointly safeguard peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific and inject more positive energy into the turbulent world. Wei Fenghe said this during a conversation with Malaysian Defense Minister, Hishammuddin Hussein, through video link.
China wants the militaries of the two countries to maintain high-level communications, promote the creation of cooperation mechanisms, strengthen multilateral coordination and constantly upgrade practical cooperation.
Hishammuddin said that Malaysia sincerely appreciates China’s assistance in Malaysia’s fight against the epidemic and stands ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with China in fields such as epidemic control and military affairs.
He said that Malaysia was ready to coordinate positions and strengthen cooperation with China on major issues concerning regional security and raise bilateral relations and military-to-military cooperation to a new level.
It seems Chinese strategy is to drive a wedge in the ASEAN countries with respect to AUKUS, a trilateral pact between the US, the UK and Australia that will provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. Now Malaysia has announced officially that it would seek China’s views on AUKUS, as the key ASEAN member is concerned about regional peace and stability that could be ruined by a security pact-triggered arms race.
