Australia urged to maintain diplomatic ties with China amid US-China tensions

Resumed Regular Talks

Australia and China have now resumed regular talks between defence officials.

The ambassador encouraged more engagement between the two defence forces and expressed his hope that defence ties could be brought back onto the right track and to the level they had previously reached.

Maintaining Globalisation

Xiao Qian highlighted the importance of maintaining globalisation and working together to “maintain globalisation” as China unwinds the last of its trade restrictions imposed on Australian exports.

No Reason for Damage

The ambassador stated that there is no reason for the relationship between Canberra and Beijing to be damaged by Trump’s return to the White House. He also suggested that Australia shared blame for the episode, saying that China was responding to unfair Australian tariffs on Chinese goods.

Tighter Defence Ties

Xiao Qian hinted that China wants tighter defence ties with Australia. The ambassador suggested he’d like to see joint exercises resume between the two countries’ defence forces.

Managing Relations Maturely

The ambassador emphasized the need for both countries to manage their relationship “maturely” and protect its “foundations.” He also stated that there is no reason to compromise respective interests for the sake of a third party.

Trade Cooperation

China’s Ambassador to Australia highlighted the importance of trade cooperation between Beijing and Canberra. The ambassador remained confident that the two great powers could manage their relationship despite fears of a global trade war.

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Importance of Bilateral Relations

Xiao Qian highlighted the importance of bilateral relations between Canberra and Beijing when asked about potential tariffs by US President-elect Trump. He emphasized that Australia and China share fundamental interests and national interests, which should be managed maturely to avoid damage to both sides.

Regret Over Past Episode

The Chinese ambassador expressed regret over a past episode that caused damage to both countries, but suggested that Australia shared blame for the episode. He criticized the Turnbull government’s decision to block Huawei from Australian networks and stated that China was responding to unfair Australian tariffs on Chinese goods.

Future Cooperation

Xiao Qian hinted that China wants tighter defence ties with Australia. He suggested that he would like to see joint exercises resume between the two countries’ defence forces, which have had a series of confrontations in recent years, including in the South China Sea and the Yellow Sea.