Chinese State Media Applauds Albanese’s Approach to Beijing

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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent six-day visit to China has drawn effusive praise from Chinese state media, which lauded his “rational approach” to bilateral relations. The visit, marked by meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, signals a warming of ties between Canberra and Beijing. However, this newfound coziness raises questions about the Labor government’s ability to balance economic interests with national security, especially as Chinese media contrasts Albanese’s approach with the firmer stance of his predecessor, Scott Morrison.

Chinese state-controlled outlets, including The Global Times and China Daily, hailed Albanese’s diplomatic efforts as a “turnaround” in relations, crediting his “pragmatic” policies for fostering cooperation. An editorial in The Global Times praised Albanese for “seeking harmony without uniformity,” noting his commitment to the one-China policy and opposition to Taiwan independence. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-owned China Daily highlighted a “positive upturn” under Albanese, contrasting this with Morrison’s tenure, which it criticized for lacking “clear judgment.” Such praise, while flattering, underscores Beijing’s preference for a less confrontational Australian leadership, potentially at the cost of strategic resolve.

Albanese’s visit, which included a high-profile lunch with Xi and a roundtable with business leaders, focused heavily on trade and tourism. He emphasized Australia’s role as a key supplier of iron ore and the potential for collaboration in decarbonizing China’s steel industry. Yet, while Albanese touted “frank and open dialogue,” sensitive issues like Chinese cyberattacks and the detention of Australian writer Yang Hengjun were reportedly raised only in private with Li Qiang, not Xi. This softer approach risks appearing weak, especially as Beijing downplays concerns like the Port of Darwin lease, which Albanese has pledged to return to Australian control.

The glowing editorials from Beijing’s propaganda arms should raise red flags for Australians wary of CCP influence. While economic ties with China are vital, Albanese’s willingness to prioritize trade over security concerns could embolden Beijing’s regional ambitions. Posts on X reflect public unease, with some calling Albanese’s approach a capitulation to Xi’s agenda. The Labor government must tread carefully to avoid compromising Australia’s sovereignty while navigating this delicate diplomatic dance.