• The current political tensions between Australia and China are largely due to Australia’s outspokenness on issues like human rights abuses in China and its call for an independent inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 pandemic.
• China has responded by imposing trade restrictions on various Australian industries and increasing its rhetoric towards the Australian government.
• The Australian government has responded by attempting to maintain respectful dialogue with China while also standing by its principles and values.
• One of the ways it has done this is by engaging in high-level diplomatic talks, including a recent meeting between the Australian Trade Minister and China’s Commerce Minister.
• The government has also tried to diversify its trade relationships by seeking new markets for its exports.
• Additionally, it has taken a more proactive approach to engaging with Asian countries, including those with a similar democratic system like Japan, South Korea, and India.

Overall, the Australian government understands the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with China, but it is also committed to standing by its values and principles. Its strategy of engaging in respectful dialogue, diversifying trade relationships, and engaging with other Asian countries may help to stabilize the relationship over time.