Paul Keating, former Prime Minister, advocates for Australia's self-defense and challenges the AUKUS deal, calling for a shift away from U.S. reliance. Nancy Pelosi, veteran U.S. politician, rebuts Keating's dismissal of Taiwan, labeling his comments as naive. Richard McGregor from the Lowy Institute analyzes the implications of distancing from American support on national security. The discussion also touches on the complexities of the AUKUS submarine deal and the need for public awareness on defense spending amidst rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific.
Paul Keating argues for Australia's independent defense capabilities, citing advances in technology that could ensure national security without U.S. support.
The debate around the AUKUS submarine deal highlights concerns over military costs, transparency, and the implications for U.S.-Australia relations amid rising tensions in the Asia Pacific.
Deep dives
Paul Keating's Perspective on National Defense
Paul Keating argues that Australia does not require the protection of the United States and can independently defend itself against potential threats. He suggests that the close military ties with the U.S. diminish Australia's sovereignty and put the nation at greater risk, claiming that Australia's safety is compromised by being associated with an aggressive ally. Keating believes that if an invasion were imminent, Australian capabilities would be sufficient to counteract it, highlighting that advances in technology would allow for early detection and responsive action. This perspective has resonated with some within the Labor Party and the Greens, indicating a divisive view on Australia's defense strategy.
The Debate Over AUKUS and its Implications
The AUKUS agreement, which involves collaboration between Australia, the U.S., and the UK for developing nuclear-powered submarines, has sparked considerable debate regarding its feasibility and necessity. Critics, including former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, express skepticism about whether the U.S. can supply the submarines due to its own military needs and worry about the high costs involved, potentially amounting to $370 billion by 2050. Additionally, there are concerns over the lack of transparency in negotiations, with the public largely being kept uninformed about the commitments being made. Such secrecy could lead to increased public support for opposing views like those of Keating, as citizens might feel excluded from essential discussions about national security.
The Importance of Alliances in a Changing Region
The dynamics of U.S.-Australia relations are crucial in the context of rising tensions in the Asia Pacific, particularly with China's growing influence. Maintaining the alliance with the U.S. is viewed as vital for accessing advanced military technology and crucial intelligence, which could be compromised if Australia were to isolate itself. There is a significant concern about whether Australia can adequately defend itself without U.S. support, especially if conflicts arise in the region, such as a potential crisis over Taiwan. Ultimately, the discussion reflects broader questions about what role Australia should play as it navigates complex geopolitical challenges while balancing its own sovereignty and security.
Australia’s defence alliance with the United States seems to be a given.
But do we really need the Americans to protect us? The former Prime Minister Paul Keating doesn’t think so.
He insists we can defend ourselves and he wants us to tear up the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal.
Paul Keating also dismisses Taiwan as ‘Chinese real estate’, a characterisation that veteran US politician, house speaker Nancy Pelosi describes as a ‘stupid statement’.
Today, Richard McGregor from the Lowy Institute on what walking away from the US would mean for our security.
Featured:
Richard McGregor, senior fellow for East Asia at the Lowy Institute
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