Abbott discussed the hope for change in China, emphasizing the role of Australians of Chinese background in influencing China positively. He highlighted the importance of distinguishing between the Chinese people and the communist regime, stating that the regime, not the people, is the problem.
Abbott also spoke about the escalating cold war between the West and China, noting the increased stakes compared to past conflicts. He expressed concerns about China’s ambitions, including its intentions towards Taiwan and its goal of becoming the world’s top power by 2049.
Furthermore, Abbott commended Australia’s actions in addressing Chinese interference, such as banning Huawei from the 5-G network and enacting foreign agent registration laws. He stressed the need for countries to prioritize national interests over short-term financial gains and to approach dealings with China with reciprocity in mind.
Overall, Abbott’s remarks at the conference underscored the importance of vigilance and strategic action in dealing with the challenges posed by China’s regime and its interference activities. Abbott highlighted another issue that gives Beijing an advantage, especially in regions like Africa where commercial ventures and investments often involve engaging in “unethical behavior” to progress. According to the Africa-based think tank Policy Center for the New South, China now contributes around 12 percent of Africa’s industrial output, with Chinese companies holding nearly half of the continent’s contracted construction market. This increased presence of Chinese commercial and military activities in Africa is viewed as a geopolitical threat to Western countries.
Transparency International reports that corruption in Africa is on the rise, with bribery being widespread. Abbott noted that China excels in such environments, while Western companies face prosecution from their own governments for crossing ethical boundaries.
Abbott commended Canada for initiating a public inquiry into foreign interference in elections, following revelations of China’s meddling in Canada’s political processes. This inquiry, which began on September 7, 2023, is expected to issue its first report by May 3, 2024.
Canadian Conservative MP Michael Chong acknowledged Australia’s proactive stance against threats from the People’s Republic of China, which included facing trade sanctions for pushing for an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19. Chong emphasized the need for democratic nations like Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand to unite against the challenges posed by the Chinese regime.
Overall, Abbott stressed the importance of coordinated efforts among democratic nations to counter the influence of China and work towards a better world. Please rewrite the following sentence:
Original sentence: “The cat sat lazily in the sun, soaking up the warmth.”
Rewritten sentence: “Basking in the sun’s warmth, the cat lazily sat and relaxed.”
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