Liberal Senator Claire Chandler: Beijing Uses Trade to Influence Public Debate
Although the lifting of coercive restrictions is a positive development, we should not lose sight of it as the primary focus of our foreign policy.
Australia must remain vigilant about Beijing’s use of economic incentives to influence public discourse and divert attention from its military actions, cautioned a Liberal senator.
After a three-year trade freeze ended, resulting in China lifting punitive tariffs on Australian wine exports, the Liberal Senator urged caution, emphasizing the need to not prioritize the removal of coercive measures in foreign policy.
While the Labor government has adopted a more conciliatory approach to improve trade relations with China, the senator emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear perspective on China’s tactics.
Escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly between China and neighboring countries, underscore the urgency for Australia to remain aware of China’s strategies and actions in the region.
Despite efforts to strengthen trade ties with Beijing, it is essential to recognize Australia’s resilience in diversifying markets and industries in response to coercive sanctions imposed by China.
A focus on protecting national interests, safeguarding citizens, addressing human rights concerns, and minimizing vulnerability to coercion should guide Australia’s foreign policy decisions.
While discussions around human rights abuses in China have taken place, concerns about specific persecuted groups, such as Falun Gong practitioners, have sometimes been overlooked in diplomatic exchanges and media coverage.
