TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The US and Australia released a lengthy joint statement on Tuesday (Aug. 6) that included “strong concern” regarding China's military and coast guard activity around Taiwan.

The over 5,500-word statement described a raft of common interests between the two countries that also included the Middle East, climate change, space policy, Southeast Asia, and other issues. It was released following a meeting between the defense and foreign ministers of both countries in Maryland.

The statement reaffirmed the US and Australia’s shared opposition to unilateral changes in the Taiwan Strait status quo. The two countries “called for the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues through dialogue, without the threat or use of force or coercion,” according to the statement.

The countries “expressed strong concern regarding China's military and coast guard activity around Taiwan.” They also reiterated their commitment to working with Taiwan to allow its participation in international organizations.

They “committed to further strengthen economic, trade, and people-to-people ties with Taiwan and to enhance development coordination in the Pacific,” the statement said.

The statement also said the US and Australia are continuing to boost defense cooperation. The US said it supports Australian upgrades to its military base in the Indian Ocean, will continue to increase its military presence in northern Australia, and will consider upgrades elsewhere.

The statement also reaffirmed both sides' commitment to ASEAN, expressed deep concern for the situation in Myanmar, and stated support for Pacific climate change policies. 

It urged all parties to work towards a ceasefire in Gaza and said “The large-scale loss of civilian lives, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza are all unacceptable.” The statement also addressed information security, trade, finance, cultural preservation, mineral supply, and Indigenous issues.