New Australian Leader Albanese Makes Whirlwind World Debut
SnopesDec 27, 2021
The Facts
At the Quad Tokyo Summit on Tues., Biden and the leaders of Australia, India, and Japan reiterated their commitment to a "free and open" Indo-Pacific, denouncing "attempts to change the status quo by force" and "the militarization of disputed features."
During the meeting, China and Russia conducted bomber flights around Japan, fueling tensions in the region. Regional powers fear that China can follow Russia's example and take military actions to expand its sphere of influence.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The old-fashioned US mentality of hegemony as well as ideological and military conflict has brought instability to the Asia-Pacific. Nations in the region should work together to support collective security, stability, and prosperity.
Pro-establishment narrative
This trip sends a strong message to North Korea and China by showing that strong relationships between the US and its allies are paramount to the Biden administration. The US is committed to a free and democratic Indo-Pacific, and these alliances are vital to protecting such principles in Asia.
