Australia and South Korea held high-level talks in Melbourne this week, with security cooperation and North Korea’s evolving military program topping the agenda.
This “two plus two” meeting brought together the foreign and defense ministers of both countries for the first time in over two years. South Korea’s potential inclusion in parts of the AUKUS partnership – a security alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – was a key discussion point.
South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik suggested Seoul’s participation in the AUKUS’ non-military Pillar 2 could contribute to regional stability. This pillar focuses on cooperation in high-tech areas like artificial intelligence and hypersonics.
Both sides acknowledged shared values and strategic alignment. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles hinted at future collaboration as AUKUS Pillar 2 develops.
The meeting also reaffirmed a commitment to strengthening bilateral military ties. This includes joint training exercises like last year’s Talisman Sabre and Korea’s Freedom Shield.
Discussions covered a broader range of issues as well, including expanding cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, fostering the defense industry, and addressing North Korea’s growing military threats.
Both countries agreed to work together to block North Korea’s access to funds for its nuclear and missile programs, while condemning illegal activities like arms trading between Russia and North Korea.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong criticized Russia’s supply of materials to Pyongyang as a violation of UN sanctions and a threat to regional peace.
The South Korean delegation, led by Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, also held separate talks with their Australian counterparts, concluding a week-long visit to Australia.