The prime minister's week-long diplomatic tour of Malaysia and South Korea, marked by a series of significant encounters and statements, has shed light on the importance of relationships and the delicate balance of global trade. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from Anthony Albanese's time at ASEAN and APEC.
The Power of Relationships
In the world of diplomacy, relationships are everything. Albanese's trip was a masterclass in relationship-building, showcasing how a strong network of connections can be a powerful asset. By attending the ASEAN and APEC summits, he had the opportunity to meet with dozens of world leaders, from the Philippines to Japan, Canada, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Chile. These encounters, ranging from quick hellos to formal dinners, were crucial in fostering ties and promoting Australia's interests.
The prime minister's invitation to dine with Trump was particularly noteworthy. Seated next to the US president, Albanese was praised for his 'fantastic job,' effectively silencing any criticism of his relationship with the leader. This interaction highlighted the importance of personal connections in diplomacy, especially when dealing with Australia's most important strategic partner.
Navigating Tensions with China
While Australia's relationship with China has improved, tensions remain. The summit provided a platform for Albanese to address these concerns directly. When meeting China's premier, he raised the issue of flares fired near an Australian surveillance aircraft in the South China Sea, a bold move that demonstrated his willingness to publicly disagree with China's actions when necessary. This approach, 'cooperating where we can, and disagreeing where we must,' is a delicate balance that Australia has mastered.
The strongly worded statement on conflict prevention and crisis management, issued by Australia and ASEAN nations, further emphasized the region's commitment to peace and stability. While no countries were named, it was clear that Beijing was the target, given its military aggression in the region. This statement was a powerful reminder of the importance of freedom of navigation and the need for Western nations to maintain a strong presence in the region.
The Risk of Global Trade Chaos
APEC's focus on free trade and economic cooperation is crucial, especially in the face of escalating global trade tensions. The tariffs imposed by the US and trade penalties put in place by China have caused significant disruption for businesses worldwide. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's declaration that free trade is at risk highlights the urgency of the situation. The world is witnessing one of the most profound shifts since the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the old world of liberalized trade and investment is gone.
China's dominance in critical minerals has exposed the world's reliance on a single country. This has become a significant 'issue' for Albanese, who supports free trade but is also aware of the risks of dominance by any one nation. The US's recent deals with Australia, Malaysia, and Japan are a response to this, aiming to reduce the risk of future supply disruptions. As Trump and Albanese look to sign further deals, they are leveraging China's stranglehold on the market to entice more countries to join them in ensuring a more stable and secure global trade environment.
