Beijing Beset by Insecurity and ‘Siege Mentality’: Australian Diplomat

Frances Adamson at the National Press Club in Canberra, Australia on June 23, 2021. AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

The Chinese leadership is beset by insecurity and a “siege mentality,” according to the outgoing head of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Secretary Frances Adamson, a former ambassador to China who was present during the elevation of Xi Jinping to the Communist Party leadership, said that from his ascension, the Chinese regime underwent the most “consequential change.”