China’s Ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has reassured the Australian government that China’s increased involvement in Pacific nations, particularly in policing efforts, should not be a cause for alarm. Speaking at a news conference in Canberra, Xiao emphasized the importance of cooperation between China and Australia in the Pacific, rather than asking Pacific Island countries to choose between the two. He stated that China’s intention is to help these nations with their social stability, economic development, and bilateral trade relations.
Last year, concerns grew over China’s encroachment in the South Pacific when the Solomon Islands signed a security pact with China, sparking fears of a military buildup in the region. However, Xiao made it clear that China is not seeking military strategies or purposes and urged Australia not to have any unnecessary anxiety regarding this matter.
Furthermore, Xiao addressed Nauru’s recent decision to switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China, asserting that it was a sovereign choice made by Nauru and would not affect Australia’s relations with the small island nation. He emphasized that the international community increasingly recognizes that there is only one China and that Taiwan is part of it.
Xiao also acknowledged the stabilization of Australia-China relations following Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to Beijing in November, the first by an Australian leader in seven years. Trade blocks that were imposed in 2020 on various Australian exports were lifted during the visit. Xiao expressed China’s desire to continue improving the relationship and highlighted the importance of collaboration in the defense sector. He stressed that trust between the two militaries is crucial for fostering mutual trust and confidence.
China has also lodged a diplomatic protest with Australia over its congratulations to Taiwan’s new president, whom China claims as its own.
In summary, Xiao Qian’s reassurance to Australia emphasizes China’s intention to cooperate and contribute to the Pacific region’s social stability, economic development, and bilateral trade relations. While concerns regarding China’s increasing presence in the South Pacific persist, Xiao maintained that there is no cause for anxiety as China is not pursuing military strategies. The ambassador also highlighted the importance of collaboration in the defense sector between China and Australia and expressed China’s desire to continue improving bilateral relations.
