China is refusing to apologize over a doctored image shared by its foreign policy spokesman showing an Australian soldier killing an Afghan child.
In demanding an apology, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Beijing should be “utterly ashamed” over the “repugnant” image.
But China only shot back.
“The accusations made are simply to serve two purposes. One is to deflect public attention from the horrible atrocities by certain Australian soldiers. The other is to blame China for the worsening of bilateral ties. There may be another attempt to stoke domestic nationalism,” the Chinese embassy down under said in a statement, BBC News reported.
“It’s our advice that the Australian side face up to the crimes committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan, hold those perpetrators accountable and bring justice to the victims,” it added.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Lijian Zhao tweeted the fake image in response to a report last month that found Australian special forces killed 39 Afghan civilians.
Fu Yu, the graphic artist behind the disturbing photo, has also refused to apologize.
“I get scolded by this Australian person called Morrison, and he demands my apology,” said Fu, who identified himself as the owner of Beijing Wuhe Culture and Creativity Co.
He added sarcastically, “I feel sympathetic for him and fully understand Morrison’s feelings right now.”