Thread. I briefly interviewed China's Deputy head of mission Wang Xining on his way out of the @MarisePayne speech. Some interesting elements. The Deputy suggested the PM over-reacted by responding so angrily to the tweet by @zlj517 1/ 
When asked about the barrage of attacks on Australia in state media Wang Xining denies those outlets are "manipulated" by the state and suggests they just reflect the anger of Chinese people. Yes, the first claim is patently false (though the anger towards Aus might be real) 2/
When asked about the notorious "14 grievances" from the Chinese Embassy Wang Xining attacks the Australian media, saying the way the list was presented was a "media concoction." He says it is not a definitive list of demands, "just some examples of what we disagree with" 3/
I also asked the Deputy why Australian Ministers can't get their Chinese counterparts on the phone. Wang Xining again denies there is a diplomatic freeze, and simply says "meetings between Ministers must be prepared, it is normal practice" 4/
This answer will draw scoffs from the government, which has been trying for months to get ministerial phone calls/meetings without success. Even the Deputy half acknowledges this in his answer by referring to the need for "concrete actions" from the Australian side 5/
When asked about the mounting trade strikes on Australian exports the Ambassador denies there is a coordinated campaign "targeting" Australian goods. He again complains about Australian anti-dumping actions, says some of the sanctions reflect "concerns" of Chinese businesses 6/
Finally Wang Xining says the Australian leadership has been "ill-advised" by "a handful of people who consume tax not contribute it." Not a subtle message: ignore @ASPI_org and hawkish officials, pay heed to concerns of Australian businesses worried about the Chinese market 7/
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