Part 3/10:
Sheridan underscores that the trip coincided with critical defense exercises—Operation Talisman Saber—highlighting the misalignment of priorities. While Australia and its allies are navigating increased cyber espionage activities, military provocations, and the detention of an Australian citizen in China, the Prime Minister opted for a six-day visit to Beijing without securing meaningful commitments. Sheridan contends this was a missed opportunity to press for concrete advancements on security and trade issues.