Trump taps U.S. Pacific Commander Harris as ambassador to Australia
Source: Reuters
#POLITICS FEBRUARY 9, 2018 / 2:02 PM / UPDATED 3 HOURS AGO
Trump taps U.S. Pacific Commander Harris as ambassador to Australia
Reuters Staff
2 MIN READ
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Friday named U.S. Pacific Commander Admiral Harry Harris, who is known for his hawkish views on Chinas military expansion, as his pick to serve as the American ambassador to Australia, the White House said in a statement.
The naval officer has served in the military for 39 years and is in his seventh command assignment as head of the U.S. Pacific Command, according to the White House.
During Harris tenure as head of U.S. forces in the Pacific, tensions over North Koreas missile and nuclear programs increased as President Donald Trumps administration and Pyongyang exchanged threats.
Harris, who was appointed by former President Barack Obama, favors diplomacy in countering North Koreas missile threat.
Harris is also known for his combative views on Beijings South China Sea expansion and a strong supporter of so-called freedom of navigation operations under which U.S. ships and aircraft challenge other countries maritime claims.
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https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-australia/trump-taps-u-s-pacific-commander-harris-as-ambassador-to-australia-idUSKBN1FT2PA