China urges peace in Asia-Pacific as US Marines deployed to Australia
In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei reacted cautiously to the deployment of US Marines to Australia, saying China hoped all countries would work together to maintain peace in the region.
The Foreign Ministry's remarks came the day after 200 US Marines arrived in northern Australia; the first detachment to a new permanent joint training hub that in the months to come is expected to host 2,500 American troops.
China is Australia's most important trading partner. Australian officials, along with their American counterparts, reject suggestions that America's growing military presence in northern Australia is intended to counter the growing might and regional assertiveness of China.
Chinese officials have likewise downplayed the significance of the deployment. Everyone, however, is mindful of its strategic meaning.
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I can't think of one justifiable reason for expanding the US military empire into Australia unless it's nothing more than a scheme to antagonize China.