Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott Wishes for Chinese People to Break Free from ‘Communist Rule’

OTTAWA—Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott expressed his hope that the Chinese people would eventually be free from the communist regime in China.

Speaking at the Canada Strong and Free Network conference in Ottawa on April 12, Mr. Abbott suggested that Australians of Chinese descent would play a crucial role in influencing China in the future.

He distinguished between the Chinese people and the communist regime in China, emphasizing that it is the government in Beijing that poses a challenge.

‘More Dangerous Cold War’

Mr. Abbott described the current relationship between the West and communist China as a new and more perilous form of cold war compared to the past conflict with the Soviet Union.

He highlighted China’s ambitions to dominate Taiwan and become the world’s leading power by 2049 as serious concerns for the international community.

Noting China’s aggressive activities in the South China Sea and its crackdown on freedoms, Mr. Abbott indicated that the Chinese regime’s intentions were becoming increasingly clear.

Australia Confronting Interference

Mr. Abbott commended Australia’s proactive approach to countering Chinese interference by banning Huawei from its 5G network and enacting laws against foreign agents influencing the country.

Reflecting on China’s strategic competition with the West, Mr. Abbott urged Western nations to adopt a reciprocal approach in their dealings with China.

He stressed the importance of prioritizing national interests over short-term financial gains and called for increased vigilance to prevent undue Chinese influence.

‘Short-Term Financial Interests’

Mr. Abbott cautioned against compromising ethical standards for commercial gain, pointing out China’s strategic use of financial incentives to advance its objectives.

He underscored the need for Western countries to maintain integrity in their dealings with China and avoid falling into ethical dilemmas.

‘Fastidiousness’

Highlighting China’s expanding presence in Africa through commercial investments, Mr. Abbott warned of the geopolitical implications of unethical business practices in the region.

He emphasized the need for Western companies to uphold ethical standards and avoid engaging in practices that could compromise their principles.

Canada’s Inquiry

Mr. Abbott commended Canada for initiating a public inquiry into foreign interference in its elections, acknowledging the courage required to address such threats openly.

He praised the cooperation among democratic nations like Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand in countering Chinese influence and called for stronger unity to address global challenges collectively.