Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has rejected US calls for Australia to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific, opting instead to raise it from 2.02% to 2.33% by 2034. Defense Minister Richard Marles and other officials emphasized Australia’s commitment to its own defense policy while acknowledging the need for strategic investments, particularly in response to China’s military ambitions. The US Defense Secretary warned of China’s increasing threats, particularly concerning Taiwan, calling for allies to bolster their defenses.
