Prime Minister Anthony Albanese marked a significant moment in Australia’s diplomatic history by visiting the Great Wall of China on March 13, 2024. This visit underscored Australia’s evolving relationship with China, drawing parallels between his actions and those of former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, who in 1971 took the bold step of initiating diplomatic relations with China ahead of the United States.
While standing on the iconic wall, Albanese reflected on the historical significance of Whitlam’s decision to recognize the People’s Republic of China. He noted, “At the time, that was a controversial decision to recognise the People’s Republic of China,” emphasizing its correctness in hindsight. Albanese expressed a sense of continuity, stating, “I have the sense of history following in the footsteps of … Gough Whitlam. We are literally standing on history.”
As he navigates the complexities of contemporary international relations, Albanese faces considerable pressure from Australia’s ally, the United States. The current U.S. administration continues to expect Australia to align closely with its policies while seeking to enhance diplomatic and economic ties with China. Albanese acknowledged the challenges, stating that while China has not democratized as many hoped during Whitlam’s era, building trust remains paramount in managing differences.
The Prime Minister’s visit to China included a welcoming dinner in Beijing’s Great Hall, featuring performances of Australian rock covers, reflecting a lighter side of diplomacy. Songs by Powderfinger, Paul Kelly, and Midnight Oil echoed in the hall, with Albanese noting the significance of the lyrics, which touch on themes relevant to Australia’s political history.
Albanese’s trip was highly curated, with the Great Wall typically bustling with tourists cleared for his arrival, and major thoroughfares in Shanghai and Beijing closed to accommodate his motorcade. Australian flags lined the streets, creating a symbolic atmosphere for the visit.
After a brief press conference, during which he donned a Rabbitohs cap and sneakers, Albanese ascended the wall with his fiancée, Jodie Haydon. Seeking an impactful photograph reminiscent of Whitlam’s own historic moments, he cleared a space for himself and expressed a light-hearted desire for a celebrant, hinting at personal milestones amid the formalities of statecraft.
The visit and its carefully orchestrated events reflect not only Australia’s historical ties with China but also the ongoing balancing act by Albanese as he seeks to stabilize relations while addressing domestic and international expectations. As he embarks on this diplomatic journey, the legacy of leaders like Whitlam looms large, reminding both Australian and Chinese audiences of the intricacies of their shared history.
The political implications of Albanese’s visit are profound, especially as former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd works to maintain the AUKUS pact amidst rising tensions and a more assertive stance from China. The juxtaposition of Albanese’s outreach to China against the backdrop of U.S. expectations presents a nuanced challenge for Australian diplomacy moving forward.
