Australian Defence Minister calls for calm over future of AUKUS

Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles has urged calm amid discussions about the future of the AUKUS defense pact, emphasizing its strategic importance and the commitment of all parties involved. Marles highlighted that AUKUS is a technology-sharing arrangement between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with a focus on acquiring nuclear-powered submarines and advancing innovative defense technologies.

He reassured that the agreement does not oblige Australia to accept foreign nuclear waste, stating, "Nuclear waste won't end up in Australia, other than the waste that is generated by Australia". Despite challenges such as potential delays in submarine deliveries and concerns over production capabilities, Marles remains confident in the pact's progress.

He noted that AUKUS projects are "happening at a pace," and emphasized the importance of "strategic patience" as Australia embarks on its most complex industrial enterprise—the construction of nuclear-powered submarines.