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  • Essay / China-Australia Relations - 1040

    Analyzing China-Australia relations through a realist and liberal perspective provides insight into the underlying tensions and possible future outcomes of relations between these two nations. Let's first look at relationships from a realistic perspective. Realists emphasize the state as the main actor. Reflecting on this, realists might say that Australia-China relations arise primarily from individual state actions rather than external influence. China needed resources and Australia needed capital. It was Australia's individual decision to enter into trade relations with China and vice versa. It can also be noted, however, that Australia wishes to push its relations beyond a simple trade relationship, as can be inferred from the sentence "Rudd, while embracing Chinese trade, has decided to balance its relations with Beijing by strengthening military and diplomatic relations.” with Australia's long-time ally, the United States. It also highlights the realistic perspective that human nature has a darker side and that we should be wary of those we "deal with." Realists would also point out that China's interest in Australia stems from its desire to gain more power. The Chinese “essentially want to maximize their ability to get what they want” from a realistic perspective. Resources are just one way China seeks to use Australians. This perspective would most likely assert that the Chinese would seek to exert power over their new hold on the Australian economy. As it stands, they are already Australia's largest trading partner, have injected $40 billion into the Australian economy in the last six months alone and buy more than 300 million tonnes of ore per year and large quantities of paper. ...human nature and it is best to prepare for the consequences that the dark side of human nature usually brings. Both the realist and liberal perspectives contain excellent arguments as to what the appropriate course of action should be from Australia's perspective. relationship with China. Overall, the realist perspective appeals to me more because of its logic and the security it offers Australia. My example of a liberal method aimed at containing Chinese influence offers an interesting alternative. However, I do not think that it would be enough to limit Chinese influence because of its weak authority. Australia must implement methods that show it is in control of its nation rather than China. This requires baring its teeth (strengthening its military and foreign ties) and avoiding engaging in foreign policy with China beyond trade issues...