China's Ambassador Goes Public Against 'Threat Paranoia' in Australia

Chinese Ambassador Xiao Qian published an op-ed in The Sydney Morning Herald on July 1, 2026, directly countering what Beijing calls exaggerated security fears about China in Australian debate. The move signals a shift: rather than negotiate solely through official channels, Beijing is now appealing directly to Australian public opinion—a strategy reflecting thawed ties after PM Albanese's 2025 China visit and December 2025 trade renewal.