Part 4/8:
Downer criticized the current Australian approach as potentially inward-looking and isolationist, emphasizing Australia's traditional role as a supporter of liberal democracy and alliances led by the United States. He argued that without active engagement with US policymakers and leaders, Australia risks becoming disenfranchised from critical regional security issues.
He noted that while the Albanese government discussed trade and human rights, there has been a conspicuous absence of high-level geopolitics in public discourse. Without direct engagement with key players like the US, Australia’s influence and strategic position could diminish.