Global front necessary against Chinese bullying: former Australian PM

London/Canberra/Beijing – Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said that the countries of the world need to unite against the Chinese bullying on economic and geopolitical issues. Rudd also warned that if such a global front is not formed, there is a risk of China isolating and individually cornering countries. These statements coming from Rudd, known as a Pro-China leader, become significant.

Relations between Australia and China have been festering for the last few years. The Huawei ban, anti-China stand adopted in the World Health Organisation, aggressive policy adopted in the South China Sea and the statements issued regarding the Hong Kong and Taiwan issues by Australia are the reasons behind this festering of relations. At the same time, action taken against the increasing Chinese interference in internal Australian matters also is an important issue. In retaliation, China has initiated a trade war against Australia, imposing a ban and taxes on importing various Australian products.

Against this background, the appeal made by former Australian Prime Minister Rudd becomes important. During an interview with the British news channel BBC, Rudd indicated that a new geopolitical system could come into existence against the increasing Chinese influence. He stated, ‘If displeasure is to be expressed regarding the Chinese policies and decisions, a stand must be taken collectively by the countries with similar ideologies. Please understand that the Chinese regime can easily pressurise in a bilateral situation if a country decides to go solo in this matter.’

Rudd also advised, ‘China does not like to be reprimanded on any issues, and a dispute can spark due to this. But there is no need to believe that other countries should not do things that China does not like. At the same time, he also expressed displeasure over the anti-China policies of the current Australian government. He criticised that the policies of the current government are nothing but babbling in a shill voice. Reaction has been received from China regarding the statements of former Prime Minister Rudd. Chinese mouthpiece Global Times has asked, ‘Is Rudd, who appeared to be a friend of China, betraying China?’ It also warned that if Rudd maintains this language, he will also have to face the heat of the changing Chinese outlook.