Part 9/12:
In terms of practical diplomacy, Kenbanis proposed leveraging Rudd’s proficiency in Mandarin to directly engage Xi Jinping, hoping that this might facilitate a crucial face-to-face meeting between Albanese and Trump. She explained that an absence of direct dialogue risks “being frozen out,” which could have serious implications for regional security and Australia’s strategic interests.
Rising Security Concerns and Defense Readiness
On the defense front, experts warn Australia is underprepared for a potential conflict involving China, especially around Taiwan. As regional tensions escalate with predictions of a possible Chinese intervention by 2027, the government’s defense policies and budget are under scrutiny.