ChinaTalk The Blunder Down Under? How China-Australia Relations Fell Off a Cliff
Dec 2, 2020
Yun Jiang, Editor of the China Story blog and director at the China Policy Centre, delves into the turbulent history of Australia-China relations. She highlights how trade ties began to fray post-2017, fueled by foreign interference concerns and a controversial COVID-19 probe proposal. The discussion also covers the emergence of a parliamentary group opposing Chinese influence and China's grievances against Australia, alongside the intricate balance of national security and diplomacy. Jiang emphasizes learning from other nations' experiences to navigate these complex waters.
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Turning Point
- The relationship shifted in 2017-2018 with Australia's foreign interference legislation, largely perceived as targeting China.
- Further tension arose from Australia's ban on Huawei from its 5G network, leading to a diplomatic freeze.
Journalist Incidents
- In mid-August, Australian journalist Cheng Lei was detained in China for national security reasons.
- Shortly after, two Australian journalists sought refuge in the Australian embassy after being threatened by Chinese authorities.
Trade War Begins
- Starting September 2020, China imposed trade restrictions on Australian goods, like barley and beef.
- This was interpreted as economic coercion, using trade for geopolitical purposes against Australia.