Albanese’s Critical Xi Jinping Summit in China: Insights from Diplomat Geoff Raby

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, as discussed by former Australian Ambassador to China Geoff Raby in a 7NEWS interview with Tim Lester, underscores the delicate balance Australia must strike between economic reliance and strategic concerns. This article explores Raby’s insights on the summit’s significance, the challenges Albanese faces, and the broader implications for Australia’s national interests amidst global tensions.

Geoff Raby, a seasoned diplomat with decades of experience in China, emphasised the pivotal nature of Albanese’s talks with Xi Jinping, noting, “This is a very important moment in Australia-China relations.” With China as Australia’s largest trading partner, accounting for nearly $312 billion in two-way trade in 2024, the economic stakes are immense. Raby advises Albanese to secure a clear commitment from Xi on sustaining this economic partnership, particularly as China’s military rise and regional disputes over Taiwan, Xinjiang, and Tibet complicate ties. However, Raby dismisses exaggerated fears of China as a direct security threat, arguing that Beijing prioritises its own stability and economic performance over aggression toward Australia.

Albanese’s Labor government faces scrutiny for navigating this high-stakes summit while managing domestic and international pressures. Critics argue the government’s focus on trade with China risks overshadowing strategic alliances, especially with the United States, where Albanese has yet to secure a high-profile in-person meeting with President Joe Biden. The AUKUS (Australia, United Kingdom, United States) submarine deal, while ongoing, adds complexity to Albanese’s Beijing visit. Raby cautions that Albanese must address human rights concerns, including the case of detained Australian Yang Hengjun, to maintain credibility, but warns against letting these issues derail economic discussions.

The personal dynamic between Albanese and Xi, now in their fourth meeting, will be closely watched. Raby highlights the importance of warmth in these talks, especially given past strains in US–Australia relations during the Trump administration. The Labor government’s approach, cooperating where possible but disagreeing where necessary, must avoid appearing overly conciliatory to Beijing. As global trade tensions rise, particularly with tariffs and geopolitical challenges, Australia’s economic dependence on China demands a pragmatic yet principled stance to safeguard national interests without compromising strategic priorities.