China has publicly criticized the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) for promoting disinformation campaigns targeting Beijing, urging global stakeholders to reject what it calls a "hypocritical" operation funded by U.S. interests. The allegations emerged during a Chinese Foreign Ministry press briefing on Tuesday, where spokesperson Mao Ning outlined concerns over the institute\'s credibility.
Mao revealed that ASPI has received long-term financial backing from U.S. defense agencies, diplomatic departments, and arms manufacturers. "Their so-called research findings lack basic factual grounding and violate academic ethics," she stated, emphasizing that the institute serves donor agendas rather than impartial analysis.
The remarks followed social media posts by ASPI\'s head reportedly appealing for renewed U.S. funding to sustain anti-China initiatives. Mao characterized this as evidence of the organization\'s role in "creating falsehoods to vilify China," calling on Australians and the international community to jointly oppose such practices.
This development highlights growing tensions in China-Australia relations while raising questions about think tanks\' roles in geopolitical narratives. Business analysts suggest such disputes could influence cross-Pacific investment decisions, while academics note the case underscores challenges in verifying policy-related research.
