Australia's China contradiction: AUKUS vs the Pacific

<p>The Albanese government has been on an unprecedented campaign of diplomatic activism in the Pacific Islands &ndash; all to keep China&rsquo;s military at a distance.</p> <p>At the same time, AUKUS is remaking our defence strategy, with eight nuclear-powered submarines, expanded facilities for US forces, and plans for a new east-coast submarine base.</p> <p>For some watching on, those two approaches are at odds &ndash; the diplomacy aims to prevent a Chinese foothold, while AUKUS gives them the exact reason why they need one.</p> <p>Today, the director of the International Security Program at the Lowy Institute, Sam Roggeveen, on the contradiction at the heart of Australia&rsquo;s Pacific policy &ndash; and whether there&rsquo;s a safer way to defend our region.</p> <p><br />If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.</p> <p><br />Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram</p> <p>Guest: Director of the International Security Program at the Lowy Institute, Sam Roggeveen.</p> <p>Photo: AAP Image/Lukas Coch</p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>