China has issued a warning to Australia following large-scale military drills involving Aussie troops in the South China Sea.
Beijing’s warning came as it continues to rapidly fortify manmade islands in the South China Sea. China has also been building its military presence elsewhere in the region, including where the borders of India, China and Bhutan meet.
Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy commander Shen Jinlong met with Australian Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, and told Barrett the drills were not in line with promoting peace and stability in the region.
The warning also comes amid allegations that China was buying influence among Australian politicians this year.
Shen specifically said the presence of 1,200 Australian servicemen aboard six naval vessels during a drill in September 2017 had stoked concerns in Beijing. [source]
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