War on Terror - Effects on Oz

The ‘War on Terror’ has generally improved Australia’s relations with South-East Asia. The ‘war on terror’ has brought about greater co-operation with Southeast Asian nations including Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand over counter-terrorism. However, there are still disagreements between Australia and other nations such as Malaysia has criticised Australia’s involvement in the War on Terror and thus has damaged Australia’s relationships in the region. Other Southeast Asian nations including Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam have been less active in the war on terrorism and thus there has been little effect on Australia’s relations with these nations. Thus, Australia’s support for the ‘war on terrorism’ has generally seen an improvement in its relations with South-East Asia.

Following the attacks on September 11, 2001, President Bush sought wide support for what was declared the ‘war against terrorism’. Australia initiated the ANZUS pact and consequently committed itself to fight alongside US forces, which had identified Osama Bin Laden as the chief suspect responsible for

‘Indonesia has not seen enough evidence to justify military action against Iraq. Indonesia will not accept any unilateral decision outside the [UN] Security Council ‘

Microsoft Encarta DVD (2002) Terrorism [DVD] 2002 Redmond WA USA

Singapore, which has strong economic links with the US, has been a strong supporter of the ‘war on terror’. Singapore, a multicultural nation, which promotes multi-racial harmony have been hesitant over the ‘war on terror’, as it desired unity between all races. However, other motivations such as its relationship with the United States, have caused Singapore to increase its efforts in the ‘war on terror’ Following the September 11 attacks, Singaporean intelligence with aid from Malaysia tracked and arrested 15 persons, including 13 who were members of Jemaah Islamiyah. This effort in the war on terror and its support of US involvement in Iraq has consequently improved Australia’s relations with Singapore, as both nations had similar views on the war on terror. Through the ASEAN agreement Southeast Asian nations and the US share counter-terrorism intelligence. Thus through this agreement and the ‘war on terror’ Australia and Singapore have become closer in their relationship due to both nations need to fight terrorism and for their relationship with the United States.

Some topics in this essay:
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