Australia to send senior official to China defence forum as ties stabilise

Australia will send a senior defense official to China’s Xiangshan Forum in October, marking the first time in four years. The forum, considered China’s response to Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue, will host foreign defense officials in Beijing. The move signifies a thawing of tensions between Beijing and Canberra, following a diplomatic dispute. The attendance of a US representative is also expected.