The wine-lover's heart is not in the cup — an old Chinese idiom that suggests a person's true intentions are often found beyond the obvious.
Despite these challenges, the aim is clear — to solidify business relations while reducing public opportunities for dissent.The decision to follow this plan has led to a frenzy within the business community — particularly among major trade organisations representing the wine, lobster, and renewable energy sectors.
It has highlighted a unique Chinese approach to diplomacy — one that prioritises direct engagement with business sectors over diplomats.On Wang's first night in Australia on Wednesday, he joined a private roundtable with the Australia China Business Council .Participants included business leaders from the resources, education, health, financial and legal sectors, alongside directors of think tanks, policy institutions and academia.
Feng Chongyi, associate professor for China Studies at the University of Technology Sydney, gave further insight into Wang's underlying strategy. "Looking ahead, the green light for Australian wine, lobster, and beef exports to China may soon signal a thaw in previously frosty trade relations," Feng said.
By focusing on business and economic interests, Wang aims to pave the way for a future where political and trade relations between China and Australia can be restored.