China's announcement of an air-defence identification zone over the East China Sea

Media release

26 November 2013

The Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop has expressed concern about China's sudden announcement of an air-defence identification zone over the East China Sea.

The timing and the manner of China's announcement are unhelpful in light of current regional tensions, and will not contribute to regional stability.

Australia has made clear its opposition to any coercive or unilateral actions to change the status quo in the East China Sea.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade yesterday called in China's Ambassador to convey the Australian Government's concerns and to seek an explanation of China's intentions.