THE Howard Government’s inept response to the attempted defection of diplomat Chen Yonglin is a reminder of the growing “Chinese problem”: having the future regional hegemony defying the conventions of liberal democracy.
At face value there seem to be three imperatives here: that Australia should grant a safe home to the defecting Chinese diplomat; that such a decision should be taken promptly in the interests of Australia, China and Chen; and that Australia’s conduct of this issue should display confidence rather than indecision at the prospect of offending China.
So far none of these tests have been satisfied, though it seems certain that Chen’s request will be met. Hopefully this will be sooner rather than later.
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