Part 2/10:
The Prime Minister's visit focused heavily on economic diplomacy, trade, and soft power symbolism. Events ranged from the usual diplomatic gestures—such as sharing pandas and participating in cultural exchanges—to discussions on fashion and steel diplomacy. Notably, the government attempted to re-establish dialogue around maritime security issues, notably the Chinese vessel near Australia's east coast several months prior. However, these efforts appeared largely polite and superficial, with substantive security concerns, such as the maritime incursion, politely rebuffed by Chinese officials.