China has delivered a strong assurance it poses no security threat to Australia and says it wants to develop a stronger military to military relationship, it's been reported.
Beijing's ambassador to Canberra, Ma Zhaoxu, has stressed the importance to China of the economic relationship with Australia and closer military and security ties to build up mutual trust.
"I can say very clearly, China is not a strategic threat to Australia but a comprehensive strategic partner, Mr Ma told The Australian newspaper.
"We enjoy tremendous common interests between our two countries."
His comments follow the release of a report on the state of the ANZUS alliance, which warns that China's growing naval power threatens to bring Canberra within range of its long-range missiles.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott has downplayed the threat, saying Australia had a good and strong friendship with China and the closest possible relationship with the US.
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