Tehan, Albanese, Wong, Payne all speaking today at an Australia China Business Council event. Albanese + Wong both walking a careful line. Wong says there will be enduring differences between Australia and China, partly because they are - in some instances - structural 1/
Wong and Albanese both say Australia cannot compromise on its values when dealing with China. But they also say it's still critical to pursue engagement. Albanese suggests the Government's language has been clumsy at times- "we need to be diplomatic in how we deal with China" 2/
Albanese also says it's a shame the Government rejected his suggestion (in January) to recruit Rudd and Howard to try to break the ice with China - "it's a pity that was rejected it was constructive suggestion" 3/ afr.com/politics/feder…
Now Payne. She says China's outlook has changed. It is increasingly assertive and presents "challenges to the agreed rules and norms which have underpinned our security and prosperity for so long" 4/
Payne - "we are clear, consistent and confident about the positions we take." Also- "Australia is following clear strategy, informed by clear objectives and principles" 5/
Payne- "we've been advised by China they will only engage in high level dialogue if we meet certain conditions. Australia places no conditions on dialogue." Adds that Australia *can't* (or won't) meet conditions like the 14 grievances issued by Chinese Embassy. So, stalemate 6/
Ambiguous comment here on Beijing Winter Olympics. Payne says there will be "strong international discussion" on the Winter Olympics ... "but sport is supposed to bring us together so let's hope we can move through that." Adds decisions are ultimately for Olympic committees 7/
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
