Aus PM asks China to refrain from ‘coercive behaviour’ over SCS

“As I have said many times, every nation in our region has benefited enormously from the many, many decades of relative peace and tranquillity in this region. It is vital that that is maintained,” he said.

Turnbull on Thursday  asked China to “refrain from coercive behaviour and any unilateral actions designed to change the status quo in the disputed areas.” 

He asked all parties and claimants to respect the decision made in accordance with international law, saying “there is so much at risk in the event of conflict, in the event of heightened tensions, so this is an important decision.