Chinese ambassador begins Australia posting, says took bus to work

China's new ambassador to Australia, Liu Jinsong, has commenced his duties in the capital, Canberra, emphasizing a desire for connection by stating he traveled by public bus and engaged with local residents. Liu arrived in Australia on August 25, expressing his honor and sense of responsibility in a statement on the embassy's website.

Ambassador Liu described his bus journey from Sydney to Canberra as an enjoyable experience, during which he chatted with "ordinary Australians on board." This gesture appears aimed at fostering a more approachable image and signaling a potential shift in diplomatic engagement following a period of strained relations.

Relations between Beijing and Canberra reached a nadir under the former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's government, marked by Chinese import bans and restrictions on key Australian commodities like coal, barley, and wine. China was particularly angered by Australian actions such as legislation against overseas influence, the exclusion of Huawei from 5G networks, and calls for an investigation into the origins of COVID-19.

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both sides should respect each other’s core interests and major concerns. Our two countries have no historical grievances, no fundamental conflict of interests, highly complementary economies and mutually enriching cultures.

Under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, ties have seen a noticeable improvement, with Albanese visiting Beijing twice since 2022. However, sources of friction persist. Australia recently condemned China's test of a nuclear-capable missile in the South Pacific, deeming it destabilizing. While China remains Australia's largest iron ore customer, Canberra has increased scrutiny of Chinese investments in the rare earths sector. Ambassador Liu stressed mutual respect for core interests and stated that the two countries "have no historical grievances, no fundamental conflict of interests, highly complementary economies and mutually enriching cultures."

Liu replaces Xiao Qian, a diplomat known for his sometimes fiery rhetoric. Liu's previous experience includes leading the foreign ministry's Department of Asian Affairs and high-profile negotiations with Japanese officials. His arrival and initial public statements suggest an effort to navigate the complex relationship between China and Australia with a focus on dialogue and mutual understanding, despite ongoing underlying tensions.

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with ordinary Australians on board, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.