Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles defends Australia’s defense spending at the Shangri-La Dialogue, arguing the country allocates a larger share of its GDP to the military than several major European countries. Speaking in remarks reported by Bloomberg, Marles says Australia spends more, relative to the size of its economy, than Germany, France and the UK. He frames the budget as part of Australia’s broader defense posture and engagement with key partners.
Bloomberg also reports that Marles welcomes closer ties with Japan, indicating support for continued cooperation in the region. The remarks come as Marles is set to meet with his US counterpart, according to the accounts. Across the coverage, the focus remains on defending Australia’s level of military spending using comparative figures tied to GDP, and on reinforcing relationships with Japan and the United States as part of Australia’s strategic approach.
