China's Diplomat Encourages Australia to Stand Firm Against US Military Spending Influence

According to a recent article by Bloomberg, China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has called on the nation to resist being swayed by NATO’s push for increased defense spending in alignment with U.S. demands. Instead, he advocates for collaboration with China to address regional issues. In his piece featured in The Australian, Xiao highlighted that both nations share vital trade routes and have important interests in maintaining maritime security.

Xiao pointed out that ramping up military expenditures can impose a ample financial strain on countries, diverting resources away from economic growth and improving citizens’ quality of life. He noted that this could exacerbate the already fragile global economy as it seeks recovery from various challenges.He criticized certain nations for amplifying what he termed the “China threat narrative” during gatherings like the G7 summit and NATO meetings, suggesting these discussions are designed to justify increased defense budgets and encourage Australia to follow suit. Currently, Australia allocates just over 2% of its GDP towards defense but faces pressure from the U.S. to elevate this figure closer to 3.5%. The Australian government has resisted such demands while emphasizing its previous increases in military funding.

At a broader level, Canberra is navigating a delicate balance between its historical allyship with the U.S.and its economic partnership with China—its largest trading partner—while trying not to provoke Beijing through excessive military spending increases.

As Xiao aptly put it: “We have countless reasons for friendship and none for enmity.” This sentiment reflects an ongoing desire among many Australians who believe in fostering positive relations rather than escalating tensions.

Recently at their summit, NATO leaders agreed on raising their defense budgets up to 5% of GDP while reaffirming their commitment to collective security amid rising threats from Russia. The U.S., aiming for allies like Australia to shoulder more financial duty regarding their own defenses so it can concentrate more on countering China’s influence globally.

After experiencing strained relations due largely to trade disputes following calls from Australia’s former government for an inquiry into COVID-19’s origins back in 2020—leading china into imposing tariffs on several australian exports—the current Labor administration has made strides toward mending ties with Beijing.

“China views Australia as a friend rather than an adversary,” Xiao remarked confidently. “Our approach has always been one of sincerity and patience towards building bilateral cooperation.” He expressed hope that Australia would reciprocate this spirit moving forward.