By MARK DODD
AUSTRALIA is like a "muse" for China and the US, respected by both powers for advice and ideas, says Canberra's top diplomat in Washington, Kim Beazley.
While much has been said of the rise of China and the flow-on of economic benefits, the reciprocal notion is also true of Australia, Mr Beazley said, in an interview with the Asia Pacific Security Magazine, details of which were released yesterday.
Australia's ambassador to the US said it was a mistake to underplay Canberra's importance to China and the US.
The former Labor leader's advice coincides with a speech tonight by former foreign minister Gareth Evans warning the government to show stronger leadership on nuclear disarmament if
it desires a nuclear-free neighbourhood.
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