Part 5/11:
Pazulo echoes this view, cautioning that while Australia seeks to balance engagement with China, it must remain vigilant to Beijing’s long-term objectives, particularly its military expansion and efforts to influence regional geopolitics.
The peril of track collision: conflict or contingency
The discourse held by Morrison and Pazulo reveals two primary scenarios where Australia's dual policies—deep engagement with China and alliance with the U.S.—could collide:
- Diplomatic and economic strain: If Australia’s contingency planning—such as war-preparedness exercises or security alliances—irritates or provokes China, it risks escalating tensions and undermining diplomatic efforts.