The Albanese era was supposed to offer a fresh start for Australia’s China ties. But the task of normalising relations with our largest trade partner remains exceedingly difficult.
At the heart of the matter lie questions about the nature of the new China threat. To what extent is Xi Jinping, just appointed to a third five-year term, bent on overturning the regional status quo. Will China replace the US as the leading economic and strategic power? Has China’s geopolitical position been harmed by its close affiliation with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine?
How does Australia rebuild relations with China without acquiescing to the Chinese Communist Party’s demands? Is there any solution beyond reducing our exposure to China? Or does the fear of a declining America mean Australia should adopt a more nuanced position that takes into account the security interests of a rising great power?
