China warns Australia: Military spending could hurt economy

China’s ambassador warns Australia against increased defense spending, urging to view China as a “friend” instead of a threat.

China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has issued a strong warning to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over plans to boost defence spending. In a pointed statement, the ambassador said military investments could strain Australia’s economy and impact essential social services.

He urged Canberra to treat China as a “friend” and not a threat, describing Beijing’s military expansion as “normal and modest.”

The comments come ahead of key meetings between Australian, Chinese and U.S. officials.

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