UPDATE: Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews is facing intense backlash after attending a military parade in Beijing on September 6, 2023, alongside notorious leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. This controversial appearance comes amidst escalating tensions surrounding Australia’s foreign relations and has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum.
Andrews defended his presence at the event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second Sino-Japanese War and World War II, stating it was a formal invitation that he could not refuse. He emphasized the importance of maintaining ties with China, Australia’s largest trading partner, asserting that “hundreds of thousands of Australian jobs depend on it.”
In a recent statement, he condemned the actions of leaders like Putin and Kim, saying, “I have condemned Putin and his illegal war in Ukraine from day one.” Despite this, the optics of his attendance have led to significant political fallout.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese distanced himself from the controversy, declaring, “I am not responsible for what every Australian citizen does.” He described the opposition’s demands for his condemnation of Andrews as “delulu,” a slang term for delusional.
Federal Opposition Leader Sussan Ley did not hold back, labeling Andrews’ participation as “utter condemnation,” insisting that standing alongside dictators and war criminals is unacceptable. “He stood with dictators, despots, and war criminals like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un,” Ley stated in parliament, highlighting the urgent need for accountability.
Andrews’ successor, Jacinta Allan, however, defended him, noting that “it is good for Victoria that Daniel Andrews is held in such high regard by the people of China.” She plans to lead a trade mission to China later this month, aiming to bolster Victoria’s economic ties.
Criticism also emerged from within the government, with Deputy Premier Ben Carroll questioning the wisdom of aligning with leaders like Putin. “For the vast majority, myself included, it’s not worth that photo,” he commented on the implications of Andrews’ actions.
In a broader context, former Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk referred to the situation as “a bridge too far,” expressing her discontent with Andrews’ decision. Meanwhile, former foreign minister Bob Carr, also present in Beijing, opted out of attending the parade, calling it “extremely boring.”
As this story continues to develop, all eyes are on the upcoming trade discussions led by Allan, and how the government will respond to the growing controversy surrounding Andrews’ actions. The implications for Australia’s international relations are vast, and the urgency of this situation cannot be overstated.
Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking news.
