16 Nov 2018

Jacinda Ardern plays down Malaysia's South China Sea warning

From Morning Report, 6:48 am on 16 November 2018

The Prime Minister is playing down a warning given by her Malaysian counterpart over the potential risks of China's territorial claims in the South China Sea. The veteran Mahathir Mohammad surprised in opening remarks in a meeting with Jacinda Ardern that China's building of military facilities and sailing warships through the disputed waters might affect all countries in the region. He called for concerted international action and opposition to deter China from going too far. Mr Mahathir's direct remarks while media were still present prompted Ms Ardern to have reporters ushered out. She later said there was nothing new in what the 93-year old Mr Mahathir was saying, nor did she take the comments to be directed particularly at New Zealand, which was taking no sides in the dispute.