Australia welcomes South-East Asia leaders with fresh maritime security funding

Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong (right) greets Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi (left) during the Australia-Asean (Association of South-East Asian Nations) summit in Melbourne on Monday, March 4, 2024. - AFP

SYDNEY (Reuters): Australia said on Monday Indo-Pacific and South-East Asian countries are facing serious defence threats as it set aside more funds for a maritime security pact with Asean countries during a summit with the South-East Asian bloc.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia would invest A$64 million ($41.8 million) over four years, including A$40 million in new funding, which would contribute to the security and prosperity of the region, consistent with the priorities of South-East Asian countries.