China
Nationalist propaganda at a screen near you
Every country has its national myths – the beliefs and narratives that serve as the foundation of its national identity. These myths find expression through a nation’s culture. A…
An explanation for the decline of China’s aid in the Pacific
The dataset for the Lowy Institute Pacific Aid Map project has charted the fluctuating levels of China’s aid in the region. Between 2008 and 2016, the disbursed amount of Chinese…
How China, India and Bangladesh could be drawn into Myanmar’s conflict
The 2021 military coup in Myanmar sparked renewed civil conflict between Myanmar government forces, the Tatmadaw, and perhaps a dozen insurgent groups seeking their own ethnic…
Make or break: Scholz’ Beijing business
On Friday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will become one of the first global leaders to visit China since Xi Jinping emerged more powerful than ever from the 20th Communist Party…
Commentary
Xi's clean sweep: China marks new era with loyalist lineup
New standing committee shows party and the world Xi will brook no dissent in third term. Originally published in Nikkei Asia.
Commentary
As Xi Jinping begins a third term, Australia must push to engage China on common interests
An overconfident Beijing and a Xi surrounded by yes-men poses a great risk to Pacific stability, making bilateral meetings all the more important. Originally published in The…
Even now, standing supreme, Xi has limits to his power
At the just completed ruling Communist Party Congress, Xi Jinping was re-selected as head of the Party. Many analysts argue that Xi’s personal power consolidation has eliminated…
Where the chips fall: in containing China, the US can leave Australia out
Earlier this month, Australia’s security ally, the United States, launched a policy of containment towards China, Australia’s largest trading partner and the country that has…
Commentary
Resounding victory cements Xi’s dominance
This congress was a triumph for one man and those loyal to him were rewarded. Originally published in the Australian Financial Review.
Commentary
How the war in Ukraine is putting Australia on Xi Jinping’s radar
As he approaches a third term in power, the Chinese leader shows no signs of retreating from his global ambitions but the unfolding disaster in Ukraine could force him to change…