Former Australian premiers Daniel Andrews and Bob Carr have been invited to attend a military parade in Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event, which celebrates China’s role in the war, is set to feature a roster of international leaders, including notable figures such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un.
The guest list, released by Xinhua, China’s state media, includes leaders from countries such as Iran, Belarus, and Indonesia. Notably absent are representatives from Western democracies, with the exception of Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico. While no Australian Members of Parliament will participate, officials from Australia’s Defence Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will attend the ceremony.
Bob Carr, a former foreign minister and a prominent advocate for pro-China policies in Australia, confirmed his attendance. He stated that the Chinese Communist Party would not be financing his travel. Carr plans to speak at an event hosted by the China Institute of International Relations, where he intends to promote Prime Minister Anthony Albanese‘s strategy of stabilising relations with China.
“I’ll be reflecting the success of Australia-China relations under the Albanese government and making reference to speeches from the prime minister and Foreign Minister Penny Wong,” Carr remarked, emphasizing that most Australians do not desire conflict with China.
Andrews, who previously signed Victoria onto China’s Belt and Road infrastructure initiative, has not yet publicly commented on his attendance. His office did not respond to inquiries about his participation by the time of publication. Chinese-language media have reported that both Andrews and Carr will indeed be present at the parade.
The invitation to attend indicates a significant diplomatic engagement, especially following years of strained relations between Australia and China under the previous Morrison government. Carr, who previously led the Australia-China Relations Institute (ACRI), aims to highlight Australia’s commitment to a more constructive relationship with China.
The event will also see the attendance of other international figures, including former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and former New Zealand Prime Ministers Helen Clark and John Key. According to Hong Lei, an assistant to China’s foreign affairs minister, the diverse international guest list reflects a global recognition of China’s contributions to the conclusion of World War II.
As preparations for the parade continue, the significance of such high-profile attendance remains a focal point in the context of international relations and diplomatic efforts. Further developments are expected as the event approaches.
