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Australia open to closer military ties with China
![Australia's foreign minister, Stephen Smith, says Australia is open to participating in more joint military exercises with China. [AFP]](http://www.abc.net.au/reslib/200812/r322870_1442019.jpg "Australia's foreign minister, Stephen Smith, says Australia is open to participating in more joint military exercises with China. [AFP]")
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Australia's foreign minister, Stephen Smith, says Australia is open to participating in more joint military exercises with China. [AFP]
Louise Yaxley, Canberra
Last Updated:
Australia's government has confirmed it is willing to do more military exercises with China.
The Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, says it is a good idea - and will help both countries prepare for dealing with natural disasters in the region.
The Chinese ambassador to Australia, Zhang Junsai, says Australia, China and New Zealand practised joint exercises in humanitarian work two years ago.
Ambassador Zhang says China's military build up is purely to for defensive purposes.
Australian Foreign Minister, Stephen Smith, says Australia is open to more work together.
"Australia has defence co-operation and contact with a range of countries, there's no reason why that can't be contemplated with China," he said.
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