The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has landed in Melbourne as he begins his trip across the Indo-Pacific.

The visit to Australia is part of a planned push to tighten up solidarity in the face of increasing tensions in the region.

Mr Blinken’s visit will include a Quad meeting which involves leaders from Australia, India, Japan and the United States.

Professor Simon Jackman from U-S Studies Centre at Sydney University has told Jim Wilson, “What you’re seeing is a real concerted effort by the four members of the Quad.”

“To get a senior US official out here is really important.”

“What we’re waiting for is a major statement from the Biden Administration.”

With announcements expected to come, Mr Jackman said, “We’re looking at forming alliances”.

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