From Freeze to Thaw: The State of Australia-China Relations

The CSIS Australia Chair cordially invites you to "From Freeze to Thaw: The State of Australia-China Relations."

Thursday, February 23, 2023 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm EST
Friday, February 24, 2023 8:00 am - 9:00 am AEST

Over the past several years, Australia’s relationship with China has deteriorated swiftly. What was once a mutually beneficial economic and commercial partnership took a turn as China began to seek more influence and control in Australian society and domestic affairs. 

Australia’s new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese promised that while he would change the new Labor government’s tone and rhetoric towards China, he would not change the direction of Australia’s China policies. Perhaps as an indication of a slight thaw, after having had no high-level contact between China and Australia for nearly five years, the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, and Trade Minister have all met with their Chinese counterparts in recent months.  

What does the slow-motion reset between Beijing and Canberra mean in practice? What are its limitations? And what does it mean for Australia’s foreign policy, defense strategy, and trade relations?  

To answer these questions, please join the CSIS Senior Adviser and Australia Chair Charles Edel on Thursday, February 23 at 4 pm EDT (February 24, 8 am AEST) for a discussion with three leading observers of Australian-China relations—Amrit Bagia, Justin Bassi, and Richard McGregor.

CSIS's Australia Chair conducts independent policy research aimed at strengthening U.S.-Australia relations. The Chair is endowed through the generosity of Pratt Industries.