Values Remain Important Despite China Trade Relations, Shadow Foreign Minister Asserts
Australia’s shadow foreign minister supports the move to reinvigorate trade with Beijing, but emphasizes the nation’s commitment to its principles.
Shadow Foreign Minister Simon Birmingham expresses satisfaction with the resumption of trade with Beijing but urges Australia to remain steadfast in upholding its democratic values.
Birmingham made these remarks during an interview on ABC Radio National following the news that Beijing had lifted the ban on Australian live rock lobster exports.
This decision came after a meeting between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese Communist Party Premier Li Qiang on Oct. 10 during the ASEAN summit in Laos.
The end of the ban on live rock lobster exports marks the resolution of years of trade disputes, which Birmingham believes should never have occurred.
Previously, Beijing alleged the presence of heavy metals in Australian lobsters, a claim refuted by the Australian government.
This development occurred amidst a series of coercive trade sanctions imposed by Beijing on Australian exports following the former Morrison government’s call for an independent investigation into the origins of COVID-19.
The ban on lobster exports had forced some fishermen to halt their activities, according to Seafood Industry Australia CEO Veronica Papacosta.
She stated, “Given the current business costs and inflation, it has been an extremely challenging period.”
While acknowledging the positive aspects of the trade agreement, Birmingham emphasized the importance of Australia maintaining its principles in its dealings with Beijing.
He highlighted the existence of differing values between the two nations and stressed the need for a principled and consistent approach in engaging with China.
Birmingham also underscored the significance of nurturing respectful relationships with countries such as the Philippines and Taiwan to present a united front when confronting Beijing.
Additionally, Birmingham criticized Albanese’s delayed response on certain national security issues, citing the HMAS Toowoomba incident where Australian naval officers faced injuries after being subjected to sonar pulses from a Chinese Communist Party warship.
He emphasized the necessity of Australia’s unwavering commitment to addressing security concerns within the region and working collaboratively with partners to promote stability and respect in the Asia-Pacific area.