Australia and the South China dispute

As former Foreign Minister Gareth Evans has pointed out, Australia as a middle power has sufficient credibility and capacity to carry out international policy tasks which would allow the world to be a 'safer, saner, more just and more prosperous' place.

As Asian states find themselves in a situation lacking in firm leadership and without a means to resolve these disputes, Australia is well placed to use its naturally gifted location in the region along with its middle power status to help play a role in finally addressing these conflicts of sovereignty.

Australia could take several approaches, taking advantage of its unique place on the international stage over the coming year.

As Australia assumes chairmanship of the G20, it could encourage Asian G20 leaders to take a more active role in negotiations while widening the agenda to include long-term strategic issues, such as territorial disputes. Australia can use its international leverage to improve relations between the other G20 countries, where creative diplomacy and new ideas are able to prevail over economic might and large populations.

Secondly, Australia could take advantage of its close relationship with the US to take a more active role in dispute resolution. While this may run the risk of other countries accusing Australia of working with the US to contain Asia, Australia could stress its neutrality and emphasise that the conflict should be resolved in accordance with international law. Finally, Australia should continue to engage in regional forums.

While Kevin Rudd's Asia Pacific Community didn't quite reach the light of day, his effort should be commended for aiming to build a new regional architecture. Australia should continue to play a leading role in other regional forums such as East Asia Summit, APEC and ASEAN++ forums.

Ensuring greater regional stability is important, as this will allow the region to continue to thrive. This will allow Australia to continue to share in regional growth while allowing us to seize the economic, cultural and social opportunities flowing from this century.

Australia is uniquely placed to use its middle power diplomacy to secure a beachhead against instability in the region and assist in resolving territorial disputes. Engaging in cooperative diplomacy and creative problem solving will ensure there is greater stability in the Asia-Pacific region, while also projecting Australian influence amongst our biggest trading partners.

By asserting itself as a responsible middle power, Australia will ensure it continues to flourish in this Asian Century enabling us to seize the opportunities and growth that this Asian ascendance is predicted to bring.