Taiwan foreign minister calls on Australia to help defend against China’s ‘expansionism’

As Australia’s relationship with China worsens, Taiwan has called on Canberra to stand up for democracy and help defend the disputed island territory against threats of attack.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu has warned the risk of regional conflict is “higher than before” because of Beijing’s increasing aggression and authoritarianism.

Mr Wu has called on democracies including Australia to support Taiwan through sharing information and intelligence.

In an exclusive interview with ABC TV’s The World, Mr Wu accused China of “expansionism” that is a direct threat to Taiwan.

“China has been imposing national security law on Hong Kong. China has also been sending vessels to the disputed water in East China Sea,” he said.

“China is also trying…