CANBERRA: China and Australia have announced a significant step forward in their diplomatic relations following talks in Canberra, signaling a thaw in their previously strained ties. Despite lingering tensions over various issues such as a high-profile prisoner, trade disputes, and China’s policies in Hong Kong and other regions, both sides expressed optimism about the progress made during the discussions.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Australia marked the first of its kind since 2017, underscoring a diplomatic breakthrough between the two trading partners. Wang emphasized that recent efforts to mend relations have “broken the ice” and highlighted the importance of building mutual trust and momentum in the bilateral relationship.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong echoed Wang’s sentiments, acknowledging the strides made in improving stability between Beijing and Canberra within a relatively short period. However, she also addressed ongoing areas of contention, including the sentencing of Dr. Yang Hengjun, a Chinese-Australian writer convicted of espionage, whose case has drawn international attention and condemnation.
Wong raised concerns about human rights issues in China, particularly in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong, where the implementation of a new national security law has raised alarms among the international community. The passing of the law has prompted criticism from the United States, European Union, UK, and United Nations, citing concerns about its impact on rights and freedoms in Hong Kong.
Protests erupted outside Australia’s parliament during the meeting between the foreign ministers, with demonstrators highlighting alleged human rights abuses in China. The protests focused on issues ranging from Tibet and Xinjiang to the case of Dr. Yang Hengjun, underscoring the continued sensitivity surrounding human rights in China.
The diplomatic rift between Australia and China dates back to 2018 when Australia barred telecommunications giant Huawei from its 5G network over security concerns. Tensions escalated in 2020 when Australia called for an international investigation into the origins of Covid-19, drawing ire from Beijing, which responded with trade restrictions on Australian exports.
While most of the trade barriers have been gradually lifted as relations have improved, restrictions on Australian wine exports remain in place. However, Wang indicated that a decision on wine tariffs would be made by the end of the month, suggesting a possible easing of restrictions in the near future.
In addition to trade issues, the discussions also focused on nickel markets, which have been disrupted by increased exports from Indonesia. The influx of nickel has led to a significant drop in prices, impacting Australian firms and prompting a reassessment of projects in the sector.
Overall, the talks between China and Australia represent a crucial step toward addressing longstanding frictions and rebuilding diplomatic relations, although challenges and disagreements persist on various fronts.
