3-11-2023 (SYDNEY) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese embarked on a historic four-day visit to China, with stops in Beijing and Shanghai. This visit marks the first time an Australian leader has visited China in seven years, signifying a potential thawing of icy relations between the two nations.
Tensions between Australia and China had escalated considerably over the last few years. China imposed punitive tariffs on various Australian commodities in 2020, partially in response to Australia’s banning of tech giant Huawei from 5G contracts and its call for a probe into the origins of COVID-19.
However, since the election of Prime Minister Albanese’s government in May last year, a new approach to China has been evident. The government has adopted a twin-track strategy, aiming to foster friendlier ties with China, its largest trading partner, while also addressing China’s growing influence in the Pacific region.
This change in approach has led to the removal of many trade barriers, including the return of Australian coal, timber, and barley exports to the Chinese market. China is also considering removing tariffs on wine, one of the few products that had remained blocked.
Despite the improved diplomatic and trade relations, Prime Minister Albanese emphasized that Australia and China are not strategically aligned. He noted their differences in history, values, and political systems. He also highlighted China’s ambitions and its different approach to the international order, stating that China seeks a region more accommodating of its values and interests.
During his visit to Washington last month, Prime Minister Albanese emphasized the importance of defending each nation’s right to choose its destiny, upholding human rights, and maintaining peace, including in the Taiwan Strait.
China is likely to present Albanese’s visit as Australia moving away from its previous alignment with the United States to “sabotage China’s rise,” according to Yun Sun, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Stimson Center. Beijing may aim to drive a wedge between the US and Australia with this narrative.
While the visit indicates a warming of diplomatic relations, it’s important to note that not all differences between Australia and China are likely to be resolved. Security issues remain a significant concern, especially in light of Australia’s plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines and its strategic shift towards long-range defense to counter China’s expanding military and diplomatic influence in the Pacific region.
Engaging with China is essential for Australia’s national interests, but it must be done while recognizing that China has different strategic objectives, according to Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute think-tank. China’s pursuit of military and technological dominance in the region has created structural differences, and China has been known to use various tactics, including cyber intrusions and economic coercion.
During this visit, there may also be discussions about Australians detained in China, such as journalist Cheng Lei, who was released last month after three years in detention, and writer Yuan Jun, who has been jailed in China since 2019 on spying accusations. The sons of Yuan Jun have requested Prime Minister Albanese’s assistance in raising their father’s case.
While the visit represents a significant step in improving relations between Australia and China, it is unlikely to completely resolve the complex issues that have strained their ties in recent years.
