Australian PM Denies US Role in Pacific Police After Talks Taped.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese denies any US involvement in a new Pacific security accord, despite being recorded privately discussing the deal with a senior Biden administration official. The Pacific Policing Initiative, which involves Australia spending A$400 million to boost domestic security in island states, is seen as a blow to China's diplomatic efforts in the region. Albanese insists that the deal is "Pacific led," but his candid comments with the US official may raise concerns about Australia operating as a US proxy. The recording is likely to increase pressure on Australia to ensure that the policing agreement is seen as a joint effort with the Pacific island nations involved. [Extracted from the article]