China's rising defense spending is alarming given that the country's economy is "collapsing". This was stated by the head of the US Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral John Aquilino, quoted by "Reuters".
He pointed out that China's economy has been hit by turmoil in the real estate sector and noted that its official growth rates are "unrealistic".
In his words, China spends "drastically more" for its military from the 7.2 percent increase it announced last month.
"Despite the failing economy, there is a conscious decision to invest in military capacity. That worries me,'' admitted Aquilino, who is due to leave his post next month.
He criticized China's increasingly aggressive rhetoric and actions in the South and East China Seas, particularly around the disputed Second Thomas Shoal and Taiwan.
"For Taiwan specifically, I notice an increasingly aggressive campaign of coercion and pressure,", noted Aquilino.
Earlier this week, a senior Chinese military leader told a meeting of senior foreign naval officials that China remains committed to resolving maritime disputes with other countries through dialogue, but will not allow it to be "abused" with him.
Also, Aquilino called the regime of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un "disgusting" because of military spending, even though the country is struggling with food shortages.
"This is another regime where any economic progress they may have despite the sanctions is directed towards military capacity rather than feeding the North Korean people. This is disgusting," he emphasized.