Australia Keen to Keep ASEAN Focus on Trade, Not Beijing’s Influence

Given Beijing’s influence over many ASEAN nations, the Australian government is keen to keep the talks focused on trade and regional development.

Australian Anthony Albanese Prime Minister speaks at a news conference during the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Australia on March 5, 2024. Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images

With ASEAN underway in Melbourne today, the Australian government—this year’s hosts—is determined to keep the focus on trade and economic development, and not on Beijing’s growing influence in the region.

That’s despite revelations last week that a former politician had conspired with foreign agents—later confirmed to report to the CCP—and “sold out” the nation while still in office.