China condemns Aukus treaty as 'irresponsible act' that 'intensifies arms race'

China has criticised the newly-formed Aukus security treaty between the UK, US and Australia, calling it "a highly irresponsible act" that threatens to intensify the arms race.

"The US and UK's action of exporting highly sensitive nuclear submarines once again proves that they are using nuclear exports as a tool for geopolitical games," Zhao Lijian, spokesman for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said.

"This is a highly irresponsible act."

Lijian also suggested that the treaty “severely damages” peace and stability, and “jeopardises” international efforts that promote the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.