Washington Rudd, who arrived in Washington, last week on his first major overseas trip since becoming prime minister, said there should be “continued good management” of relations between Washington and Beijing. The Australian leader noted China’s rapidly increasing military spending, saying questions of “transparency” and “uncertainties concerning long-term strategic purpose” were critical. “There is nothing pre-determined about U.S.-China conflict in the future,” Rudd said. “We decide the future by our actions today.” A China expert, Rudd said he seeks “common ground” between China and the international community in an effort to make China a “responsible stakeholder” contributing to a “harmonious” global and regional order.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/541967