The US Vice President Mike Pence is escalating rhetoric against China, arguing Beijing is pursuing “reckless harassment” in the South China Sea.
Mr Pence is building upon President Donald Trump's speech at the UN General Assembly last month, where he accused China of election meddling.
Yesterday, a photo was published of a near collision between a Chinese warship and an American destroyer, where Chinese military were conducting a 'freedom of navigation’ patrol.
The Prime Minister Scott Morrison yesterday said Australia's role will continue to be a constructive voice in the region, and seek to de-escalate tensions.