Tensions over Taiwan are simmering. China has criticized a visit by an Australian delegation to Taiwan, calling on Canberra to respect its sovereignty over the island.
Australia is one of the allies of the US in indo-Pacific. Washington considers Canberra a frontline state in countering Chinese economic and political moves.
Late last month, the US announced its plan to deploy six nuclear capable B-52 bombers in northern Australia.
Do these developments indicate that Canberra has sided with Washington in a bid to counter Beijings rising power in the indo-pacific?