China says AUKUS security pact risks nuclear proliferation in Pacific

Papua New Guinea's Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko (left) speaks with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi during their bilateral meeting in Port Moresby on Saturday, April 20, 2024. - AFP

SYDNEY (AFP): China's foreign minister on Saturday accused Western powers in the AUKUS security pact of provoking division and risking nuclear proliferation in the South Pacific.

On a weekend visit to strengthen Beijing's ties with Papua New Guinea, Foreign Minister Wang Yi lashed out at AUKUS, which provides for the United States and Britain to equip Australia with nuclear-powered but conventionally armed submarines.