New Delhi: In view of the increasing dominance of the Dragon in the South China Sea, many countries including the Quad are now working on a new strategy. In fact, Australia and the Philippines said that their armies would conduct joint exercises with Japan, New Zealand and the United States in the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines. This place is one of the most sensitive places in Asia. 

Australia will exercise with partner countries

Australia's Department of Defence issued a statement saying that the maritime cooperative activity reflects a collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

It also said that the naval ship HMAS Sydney and the Royal Australian Air Force's P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft will work with partner nations to promote cooperation between armed forces. 

The decision came after a dispute between the Philippines and China

The decision to conduct this joint exercise comes after air and sea clashes between the Philippines and China. The two countries clashed over disputed areas of the South China Sea, including the Scarborough Shoal. This area has been occupied by the Chinese Coast Guard for more than a decade.

On the other hand, naval ships of New Zealand and Australia took part in the exercise in the South China Sea through Taiwan.