US concerned about China's donations to Australian politicians

The US is concerned about Chinese donations to Australian politicians, after a senator was accused of bribery.

Mr. John Berry, who holds the position of US Ambassador to Australia. Photo: SMH.

US Ambassador to Australia John Berry said Washington was surprised by the extent of Chinese government interference in Australian politics.

"We cannot understand how a donation from a foreign country, from any government, friend or foe, can be considered legitimate in a democracy," Mr Berry was quoted as saying in an exclusive interview by the Australian newspaper today.

Mr Berry issued the warning after Labor senator SamDastyari resigned from the top ranks of the opposition party.Dastyari is said to haveasked a Chinese businessman to pay the bill because he had exceeded the parliamentary allowance for travel expenses.

This has sparked accusations that he was bribed, as newspapers reported that he took a pro-China stance on the South China Sea dispute, contrary to the party's stance.

Mr. Berry pointed out that foreign donations are banned in the United States.

According to VNE