Tony Abbott takes swipe at China in Japan speech, says communist nation does not share Australia's 'values'

A draft copy of a speech Mr Abbott is giving in Tokyo tonight says Japan and Australia have a "special relationship because it's not based simply on shared interests, but also on shared values".

In contrast, Mr Abbott's speech says while Australia's "economy is more closely tied to China's than to any other, it's still an 'interests' partnership rather than a 'values' one"

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/tony-abbott-lashes-china-for-not-sharing-australia-values/7204258

The id iot is still trying to offend as many foreign countries as possible.  :D :D :D

Loose cannon.

Tactical undermining of Turnbull. Self interest over Australian interests. Are these the Australian values the backbencher is speaking of?

Trump wannabe.

boxy wrote on Feb 26^th, 2016 at 8:29pm:

Trump wannabe.

Actually it is a bit the other way around, Abbott was shirt fronting Russian leaders when Trump was still getting his make up on for a TV show.


Captain Rats and Captain Rats v2.0

Bam wrote on Feb 26^th, 2016 at 7:58pm:

Loose cannon.

Are you saying Tony is like the "piece" in my pants? A dick?

John Smith wrote on Feb 26^th, 2016 at 7:15pm:

Tony Abbott takes swipe at China in Japan speech, says communist nation does not share Australia's 'values' A draft copy of a speech Mr Abbott is giving in Tokyo tonight says Japan and Australia have a "special relationship because it's not based simply on shared interests, but also on shared values". In contrast, Mr Abbott's speech says while Australia's "economy is more closely tied to China's than to any other, it's still an 'interests' partnership rather than a 'values' one" http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/tony-abbott-lashes-china-for-not-sharing-australia-values/7204258 The id iot is still trying to offend as many foreign countries as possible.  :D :D :D

In this case, he's spot-on. Besides Russia, no other nation is aggressively claiming territory that is not theirs. China has now moved powerful missiles onto the disputed islands, further militarising them. Even former Ambassador to the US Kim Beazley agreed with Abbott. Just admit it - this thread is all about you and your hatred of Abbott, isn't it Jack_Sh!t.

Armchair_Politician wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 4:29am:

John Smith wrote on Feb 26th, 2016 at 7:15pm: Tony Abbott takes swipe at China in Japan speech, says communist nation does not share Australia's 'values' A draft copy of a speech Mr Abbott is giving in Tokyo tonight says Japan and Australia have a "special relationship because it's not based simply on shared interests, but also on shared values". In contrast, Mr Abbott's speech says while Australia's "economy is more closely tied to China's than to any other, it's still an 'interests' partnership rather than a 'values' one" http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/tony-abbott-lashes-china-for-not-sharing-australia-values/7204258 The id iot is still trying to offend as many foreign countries as possible.  :D :D :D In this case, he's spot-on. Besides Russia, no other nation is aggressively claiming territory that is not theirs. China has now moved powerful missiles onto the disputed islands, further militarising them. Even former Ambassador to the US Kim Beazley agreed with Abbott. Just admit it - this thread is all about you and your hatred of Abbott, isn't it Jack_Sh!t.

Abbott has no legitimate authority to speak on foreign policy. That's Julie Bishop's job as Foreign Minister. He's now a backbencher. He should start acting like one and shut up.

Why is this zoob flying around the world giving speeches involving Australian issues and who is paying for it?  Noting this mans delight in using the public purse for everything and anything, can we afford a backbencher jetting araround as a loose cannon?

Armchair_Politician wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 4:29am:

John Smith wrote on Feb 26th, 2016 at 7:15pm: Tony Abbott takes swipe at China in Japan speech, says communist nation does not share Australia's 'values' A draft copy of a speech Mr Abbott is giving in Tokyo tonight says Japan and Australia have a "special relationship because it's not based simply on shared interests, but also on shared values". In contrast, Mr Abbott's speech says while Australia's "economy is more closely tied to China's than to any other, it's still an 'interests' partnership rather than a 'values' one" http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/tony-abbott-lashes-china-for-not-sharing-australia-values/7204258 The id iot is still trying to offend as many foreign countries as possible.  :D :D :D In this case, he's spot-on. Besides Russia, no other nation is aggressively claiming territory that is not theirs. China has now moved powerful missiles onto the disputed islands, further militarising them. Even former Ambassador to the US Kim Beazley agreed with Abbott. Just admit it - this thread is all about you and your hatred of Abbott, isn't it Jack_Sh!t.

x 2 100% correct by abbott

only a dickwad would think otherwise..

Armchair_Politician wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 4:29am:

John Smith wrote on Feb 26th, 2016 at 7:15pm: Tony Abbott takes swipe at China in Japan speech, says communist nation does not share Australia's 'values' A draft copy of a speech Mr Abbott is giving in Tokyo tonight says Japan and Australia have a "special relationship because it's not based simply on shared interests, but also on shared values". In contrast, Mr Abbott's speech says while Australia's "economy is more closely tied to China's than to any other, it's still an 'interests' partnership rather than a 'values' one" http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/tony-abbott-lashes-china-for-not-sharing-australia-values/7204258 The id iot is still trying to offend as many foreign countries as possible.  :D :D :D In this case, he's spot-on. Besides Russia, no other nation is aggressively claiming territory that is not theirs. China has now moved powerful missiles onto the disputed islands, further militarising them. Even former Ambassador to the US Kim Beazley agreed with Abbott. Just admit it - this thread is all about you and your hatred of Abbott, isn't it Jack_Sh!t.

you are forgetting AP.. the left like roll over buddies at the top... who will ever forget the furrow because he wouldnt apolgise to the Indonesians for


KRUDDY SPYING on the  Presidents WIFE of all people..

they went beserk... it will be WW111.......eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee..

talk about a bunch of white flag wavers..

sad to see aussies loosing their true grit... but this lot sure have..bunch of w^$#(&^kers..

they have lost their balls... good to see Abbott hasnt......gawd dont we need someone with a pair ..

::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::) ::)

dont forget the left are deadset against us doing business with China......

so whats their problem??...


opppps not good old lefty double standards again surely!

My My - some of the comments on here....  So, it seems some are more than happy with Mr Abbott spanning the world, speaking in Washington and the UK about his thoughts as a BACKBENCHER.  It's not about having 'the balls' or who did what to whom, it's about realising you are no longer a key player, nor even a frontbencher in the present Australian Government.    If you righties are happy about a failed ex Coalition PM and current Coalition backbencher travelling the world on tax payer dollars, white anting and undermining your Governments policies and statements, then you lack moral fortitude.  His thoughts may appeal to you PERSONALLY, but they are not representative of Australia's position at the moment.  He is doing nothing more than trying to unbalance the current Government - and I would say the same no matter whom was in power

This man's views do NOT reflect YOUR Government's policies and strategies  and forward views.  He should stay on the backbench and get off the gravy train - he is not wanted anymore!

Do people really have a problem with him speaking out against China?!

One of the biggest disgraces of the last 20 years for me has been the sickening refusal of successive Australian leaders to speak against China, it's abhorrent regime and their abysmal disdain for human and animal rights.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:05am:

Do people really have a problem with him speaking out against China?! One of the biggest disgraces of the last 20 years for me has been the sickening refusal of successive Australian leaders to speak against China, it's abhorrent regime and their abysmal disdain for human and animal rights.

He is a sitting member of parliament Andrei.  He is a backbencher and his speaking out is not in concert with his own party.  If he were joe blow on the street - fine - but he is not.  He is doing nothing more than undermine his own party.  We have Foreign Ministers, Trade Ministers and a whole bench of politicians for whom this is far more relevant.    He should sit back and be a good boy - he has had his day in the spotlight.

Armchair_Politician wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 4:29am:

John Smith wrote on Feb 26th, 2016 at 7:15pm: Tony Abbott takes swipe at China in Japan speech, says communist nation does not share Australia's 'values' A draft copy of a speech Mr Abbott is giving in Tokyo tonight says Japan and Australia have a "special relationship because it's not based simply on shared interests, but also on shared values". In contrast, Mr Abbott's speech says while Australia's "economy is more closely tied to China's than to any other, it's still an 'interests' partnership rather than a 'values' one" http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-26/tony-abbott-lashes-china-for-not-sharing-australia-values/7204258 The id iot is still trying to offend as many foreign countries as possible.  :D :D :D In this case, he's spot-on. Besides Russia, no other nation is aggressively claiming territory that is not theirs. China has now moved powerful missiles onto the disputed islands, further militarising them. Even former Ambassador to the US Kim Beazley agreed with Abbott. Just admit it - this thread is all about you and your hatred of Abbott, isn't it Jack_Sh!t.

No he's not .. most people in Australia wouldn't consider Abbott's 'values' as being the same as theirs, let alone China's . They proved when they threw him out for his bullsh1t ideology. The former Ambassador is just that, a former ambassador, Abbott is a govt. minister and his views are in direct contradiction with the government he represents.

Abbott isn't a minister, he's a backbencher. He can say what he likes.

China will see it for what it is....It is embarrassing for the Government to have to keep defending itself against Tony Abbott's ramblings....Have China responded yet???

:) :) :)

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:05am:

Do people really have a problem with him speaking out against China?! One of the biggest disgraces of the last 20 years for me has been the sickening refusal of successive Australian leaders to speak against China, it's abhorrent regime and their abysmal disdain for human and animal rights.

It is his conduct that is in question. He doesn't understand that he is now a backbencher. Backbenchers are like children - they should be seen and not heard. If the government had 50 other backbenchers all voicing their opinions in public as frequently as Abbott, the government would be highly unstable and would not last long.

Julie Bishop is the Foreign Minister, not Abbott.

That's crap. Liberal members can voice what opinions they like. Always thus.
Only the lickspittles of the ALP have their lips sewn together.

Vic wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:10am:

Do people really have a problem with him speaking out .  We have Foreign Ministers, Trade Ministers and a whole bench of politicians for whom this is far more relevant.

And their silence towards China's record and abuses is disgusting. Seriously what do they ever say in criticism of China?

Australia (save Bob Brown to his credit) simply looks the other way because of trade.

I'm all for people standing up.

bogarde73 wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 10:28am:

Abbott isn't a minister, he's a backbencher. He can say what he likes.

He can also be judged for not knowing his place!

bogarde73 wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 10:28am:

Abbott isn't a minister, he's a backbencher. He can say what he likes.

How's this for a new rule? Members of political parties can say what they like.

I'll remember this the next time a politician answers a question with, "I won't be providing a running commentary on..."

Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge.

Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 5:18pm:

Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge.

Neither party have any record to be proud on China.

Howard and Abbott said nothing.
Rudd went further and jovially smiled and spoke to their caucus in Chinese while everyone stood and bowed like grinning monkeys.

All the while the Chinese army cracks down on any protests, shoots praying monks in Tibet in the back and imprisons people who even mention the Tianamen Square massacre.

And people aren't happy someone might speak out?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 5:31pm:

Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:18pm: Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge. Neither party have any record to be proud on China. Howard and Abbott said nothing. Rudd went further and jovially smiled and spoke to their caucus in Chinese while everyone stood and bowed like grinning monkeys. All the while the Chinese army cracks down on any protests, shoots praying monks in Tibet in the back and imprisons people who even mention the Tianamen Square massacre. And people aren't happy someone might speak out?

I completely agree with him. I just don't think it's his role as a member of the government to say it. China see such criticism as government criticism. They don't take this lying down.

If any good could come from a speach like this, fine. But what?

Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 5:51pm:

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:31pm: Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:18pm: Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge. Neither party have any record to be proud on China. Howard and Abbott said nothing. Rudd went further and jovially smiled and spoke to their caucus in Chinese while everyone stood and bowed like grinning monkeys. All the while the Chinese army cracks down on any protests, shoots praying monks in Tibet in the back and imprisons people who even mention the Tianamen Square massacre. And people aren't happy someone might speak out? I completely agree with him. I just don't think it's his role as a member of the government to say it. China see such criticism as government criticism. They don't take this lying down. If any good could come from a speach like this, fine. But what?

Exactly. This is just another case of Tones being a diplomatic nightmare.

What an idjut.

mothra wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:01pm:

Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:51pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:31pm: Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:18pm: Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge. Neither party have any record to be proud on China. Howard and Abbott said nothing. Rudd went further and jovially smiled and spoke to their caucus in Chinese while everyone stood and bowed like grinning monkeys. All the while the Chinese army cracks down on any protests, shoots praying monks in Tibet in the back and imprisons people who even mention the Tianamen Square massacre. And people aren't happy someone might speak out? I completely agree with him. I just don't think it's his role as a member of the government to say it. China see such criticism as government criticism. They don't take this lying down. If any good could come from a speach like this, fine. But what? Exactly. This is just another case of Tones being a diplomatic nightmare. What an idjut.

So you're fine for nothing to continue to be said about China's behaviour.
Ok then

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:07pm:

mothra wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:01pm: Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:51pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:31pm: Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:18pm: Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge. Neither party have any record to be proud on China. Howard and Abbott said nothing. Rudd went further and jovially smiled and spoke to their caucus in Chinese while everyone stood and bowed like grinning monkeys. All the while the Chinese army cracks down on any protests, shoots praying monks in Tibet in the back and imprisons people who even mention the Tianamen Square massacre. And people aren't happy someone might speak out? I completely agree with him. I just don't think it's his role as a member of the government to say it. China see such criticism as government criticism. They don't take this lying down. If any good could come from a speach like this, fine. But what? Exactly. This is just another case of Tones being a diplomatic nightmare. What an idjut. So you're fine for nothing to continue to be said about China's behaviour. Ok then

Did i say that?

But do you really think Tones is the right person? And that he said things in the right way?

What do you think will come of it? 

mothra wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:01pm:

Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:51pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:31pm: Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 5:18pm: Thank heavens the grown-ups are back in charge. Neither party have any record to be proud on China. Howard and Abbott said nothing. Rudd went further and jovially smiled and spoke to their caucus in Chinese while everyone stood and bowed like grinning monkeys. All the while the Chinese army cracks down on any protests, shoots praying monks in Tibet in the back and imprisons people who even mention the Tianamen Square massacre. And people aren't happy someone might speak out? I completely agree with him. I just don't think it's his role as a member of the government to say it. China see such criticism as government criticism. They don't take this lying down. If any good could come from a speach like this, fine. But what? Exactly. This is just another case of Tones being a diplomatic nightmare. What an idjut.

Mr Abbott had his time as PM and president of the Sydney Uni SRC.

Now is his chance to shine.

Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:15pm:

Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing?

Why are you not reading the posts directed to you?

mothra wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:10pm:

What do you think will come of it?

All that can come is a ripple in the Australia-Sino relationship, but for what?

Mr Abbott is parotting John Howard on different values. It's not even his own idea.

In IR, you need to emphasise the shared values, not the different ones. This is what diplomacy is all about. This is how you make things happen.

Abbott is right about China in the Pacific. It's worth sending support to small islands like Palawan and others who are being threatened by Chinese ships. But if Abbott was just doing this, he'd do it.

He doesn't need to drive a wedge between two nations just to promote himself as the Liberal Party's expert on ethics and global security.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:15pm:

Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing?

Because they have nukes and the biggest army on the planet?

Melanias purse wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:19pm:

mothra wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:10pm: What do you think will come of it?  All that can come is a ripple in the Australia-Sino relationship, but for what? Mr Abbott is parotting John Howard on different values. It's not even his own idea. In IR, you need to emphasise the shared values, not the different ones. This is what diplomacy is all about. This is how you make things happen. Abbott is right about China in the Pacific. It's worth sending support to small islands like Palawan and others who are being threatened by Chinese ships. But if Abbott was just doing this, he'd do it. He doesn't need to drive a wedge between two nations just to promote himself as the Liberal Party's expert on ethics and global security.

In other words it's just going to piss China off with no discernible gain.

mothra wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 6:16pm:

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:15pm: Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing? Why are you not reading the posts directed to you?

Why are you not supporting a justifiable criticism of a repulsive regime?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:01pm:

mothra wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:16pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:15pm: Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing? Why are you not reading the posts directed to you? Why are you not supporting a justifiable criticism of a repulsive regime?

That has been explained to you, You are, for whatever reason, choosing to ignore it.

Amazes me how some on the Left have such a burning hatred that they jettison their morals at the door so they can criticise him.

Makes me wonder how deep those moral beliefs really are.

mothra wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:04pm:

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 7:01pm: mothra wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:16pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:15pm: Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing? Why are you not reading the posts directed to you? Why are you not supporting a justifiable criticism of a repulsive regime? That has been explained to you, You are, for whatever reason, choosing to ignore it.

Yes just a dislike of Tony Abbott.
I think that's pretty sad to be honest.

Have some moral fortitude and support criticism of that barbaric country.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:07pm:

mothra wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 7:04pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 7:01pm: mothra wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:16pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 6:15pm: Why is everyone so fking sht scared of the Chinese that we sell out our beliefs on human rights and opt to say nothing? Why are you not reading the posts directed to you? Why are you not supporting a justifiable criticism of a repulsive regime? That has been explained to you, You are, for whatever reason, choosing to ignore it. Yes just a dislike of Tony Abbott. I think that's pretty sad to be honest. Have some moral fortitude and support criticism of that barbaric country.

Why are you not reading the posts directed to you?

Funny the subject of China has come around now. My views on the subject have always been the same irrelevant of personnel involved - which I wish others would do but anyway....

You know this week I was lined up at Duty Free in Milan behind a bunch of Asians.
When I saw them pay they had Chinese passports and Air China tickets to Beijing.

Now they had plenty of cash, were buying some nice perfumes etc and obviously freedom to travel.
But I looked at them and thought you poor b:stards.

I'm going back to London where I've got Cameron and Corbyn exchanging insults. Farage demanding exit from the EU. Boris Johnson revolting and the Greens party pushing their agenda.
But you know what. I get to decide. I get to vote.

I can stand in the park and yell that I think David Cameron is a disgrace, that the UK Government are no good and we need to kick them out.

If those in front of me did that when they go home, they will disappear, they will be beaten. In fact if they say "I think Taiwan has every right to be independent" they will be arrested.
They don't know what it's like to vote and to have your choice become leader.

It's a shame and the biggest shame on us all is that NOBODY says anything!!!

And when someone does - he is criticised by some for what? Because they don't like Tony Abbott.

Shame. It just doesn't go away from some.

You appear to be utterly missing the point Andrei. Perhaps you can go back and read the response you have got so far so you can stop labouring under the misapprehension that the only objection is that Tones is disliked.

Oh no the general point is we now might upset the Chinese and damage relations with them....

People see frightened to death about upsetting the Chinese in Australia.

What do you think will come out of what he said Andrei?

Where is the net gain?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:17pm:

You know this week I was lined up at Duty Free in Milan behind a bunch of Asians. When I saw them pay they had Chinese passports and Air China tickets to Beijing. Now they had plenty of cash, were buying some nice perfumes etc and obviously freedom to travel. But I looked at them and thought you poor b:stards.

So you support a backbencher attempting to sabotage a country's efforts at diplomacy because you don't like Chinks, eh?

We had a few blokes like you back in Nam. Civvies. They walked in wearing suits and smelling like Palmolive Gold. They walked out bowlegged, sh!tting bricks and reeking of Amyl Nitrate. You could say we gave you blokes one for the team, son. 

We might have fought the Chinks, but we respected every last one of them.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:23pm:

Oh no the general point is we now might upset the Chinese and damage relations with them.....

Yes, you'd think a member of a government who's main claim to fame is signing an historic bi-lateral trade treaty with China might give a thought about damaging relations with them.

Sabotage diplomacy?
I'm all ears. Please tell me what pressure or criticism (and feel free to go back over 35 years) has been put on China and its outright abuses of human rights?

I'll state again - for all my disagreements on other areas - Bob Brown never shied away from criticising them.

What exactly has Australia done to hold China to account for its environmental vandalism, human rights abuses, murdering citizens in Tibet, threatening Taiwan, appalling cruelty to animals etc...

I'm all ears....

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:38pm:

Sabotage diplomacy? I'm all ears. Please tell me what pressure or criticism (and feel free to go back over 35 years) has been put on China and its outright abuses of human rights? I'll state again - for all my disagreements on other areas - Bob Brown never shied away from criticising them.

Bob Brown's not a member of the government, son.

You probably weren't aware. You live in Mother England, no?

Tony Abbott had a phrase for this sort of thing when he was PM: Megaphone diplomacy.

I won't be conducting megaphone diplomacy on the relationship with Indonesia. I won't be conducting megaphone diplomacy on the issue of sovereignty in the South China Sea. These things are best handled behind closed doors.

That's Mr Abbott for you, son. Say what you'll do and do what you say.

Looks like that one's off now, eh?

Don't try this comedy sht with me.
I asked you a question.

You said we wouldn't want to sabotage the diplomacy.

Please try and be serious for a moment and tell me what we have ever actually done on a Government level over years to hold China to account for their appalling behaviour?

I'm genuinely interested to hear what you think we have done well.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:03pm:

Don't try this comedy sht with me. I asked you a question. You said we wouldn't want to sabotage the diplomacy. Please try and be serious for a moment and tell me what we have ever actually done on a Government level over years to hold China to account for their appalling behaviour? I'm genuinely interested to hear what you think we have done well.

Which country are you talking about? Britain or Australia?

Australia.
Howard, Rudd, Gillard, Turnbull, Abbott.

What has anyone ever done to outright criticise and take China to task while they threaten Taiwan, imprison dissidents, ban any kind of free speech, pollute like there isn't tomorrow.

Did you not find Rudd's kiss assing in Chinese up there sickening?

So tell me you talk of not messing the diplomacy - what exactly are we doing to hold them to account?

Actually Britain is just as bad.

The United States takes a stronger line from its politicians on China than Australia has ever done.

Obama has criticised China more than any Aussie PM.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:16pm:

Australia. Howard, Rudd, Gillard, Turnbull, Abbott. What has anyone ever done to outright criticise and take China to task while they threaten Taiwan, imprison dissidents, ban any kind of free speech, pollute like there isn't tomorrow. Did you not find Rudd's kiss assing in Chinese up there sickening? So tell me you talk of not messing the diplomacy - what exactly are we doing to hold them to account?

Sorry, son, you'll have to be more specific when you say we. We the Commonwealth? We subjects of the Queen? We Westminster countries?

Which?

If you can't answer - which I suspect you can't then just say so.
I can't be bothered on a Saturday morning to play silly buggers.

You seem happy with Australia's "diplomacy" on China. I however am not.

I'm not happy that Abbott's jetting off all over the world to give speeches on topics that really should be left to government Ministers. No other backbencher is doing this.

There may be something more to it. Last time this happened, Murdoch's fingerprints were all over it. What's the chances that Murdoch is behind this again just to manufacture a story?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 7:23pm:

Oh no the general point is we now might upset the Chinese and damage relations with them.... People see frightened to death about upsetting the Chinese in Australia.

his comments are in direct contradiction with his own governments policies and what they are trying to achieve. Are you so anti Chinese that you are willing to ignore the basics? are you really so bereft of morals?

Are you not anti the Chinese regime too?!

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:38pm:

Are you not anti the Chinese regime too?!

anti Chinese? no, whatever gave you that impression?

John Smith wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:40pm:

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:38pm: Are you not anti the Chinese regime too?! anti Chinese? no, whatever gave you that impression?

So you are ok with the conduct of China's Government?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:24pm:

If you can't answer - which I suspect you can't then just say so. I can't be bothered on a Saturday morning to play silly buggers. You seem happy with Australia's "diplomacy" on China. I however am not.

What does it have to do with you?

You're demanding another country; a country with 24 million people, tell the second biggest economy with over a billion people what to do.

No worries, son. When you apply for a new passport, move back to Australia, pay your train fine and enrol to vote, you can have your say. We'll all appreciate your wise words on international relations.

Until then, you tell us all about UKIP and Chinks at the airport.

Yet another non answer.
Save all this "comedy" for the window licker posters.

I asked a question. Answer it or don't bother at all.

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:41pm:

John Smith wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:40pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:38pm: Are you not anti the Chinese regime too?! anti Chinese? no, whatever gave you that impression? So you are ok with the conduct of China's Government?

really? you got that from me saying I'm not anti Chinese?  ;D ;D

Bam wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:30pm:

I'm not happy that Abbott's jetting off all over the world to give speeches on topics that really should be left to government Ministers. No other backbencher is doing this. There may be something more to it. Last time this happened, Murdoch's fingerprints were all over it. What's the chances that Murdoch is behind this again just to manufacture a story?

If i was near a PC i would drag the media watch episode about Aborts intimate dinner with Obama , your wouldnt be far off with your suspicions

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:52pm:

Yet another non answer. Save all this "comedy" for the window licker posters. I asked a question. Answer it or don't bother at all.

So did I. Who's "we"?

I don't know what's funnier - the arrogance of a pom telling Australian leaders how to deal with their biggest trading partner, or the hypocrisy of a Yarpie who wants to reinstate Apartheid going on about human rights in China.

The answer to your question lies in what goes on behind closed doors, not what's said in political speeches. Australian politicians have no influence over Tibet, or live organ transplants, or Falun Gong. They will have even less influence if they make China lose face.

Strangely enough, Kevin Rudd had this effect even though he lectured them in Chinese, and using carefully coded metaphors. The Chinese people are incredibly sensitive about nationalist issues. They are heavily indoctrinated. They will follow the government into any spat.

I have no idea how to handle the Chinese, but it's not by speaking directly. Tony Abbott, of course, is totally right. We do have very different values.

The purpose of international relations is how to make these values meet, not force one set of values onto another. You can lecture people once you break the ice and establish mutual ground - once they respect you enough to listen. You can never do it from a position of weakness. All you can ever do is attempt to persuade.

As for citizens (not governments), I've had animated discussions with mainland Chinese people about Tibet and human rights in China. The usual response is Australia has no right to lecture China after what it did to Aborigines.

John Smith wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:01pm:

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:41pm: John Smith wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:40pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:38pm: Are you not anti the Chinese regime too?! anti Chinese? no, whatever gave you that impression? So you are ok with the conduct of China's Government? really? you got that from me saying I'm not anti Chinese?  ;D ;D

Well if you look at my question I asked if you were anti the Chinese regime.

Its time wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:02pm:

Bam wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:30pm: I'm not happy that Abbott's jetting off all over the world to give speeches on topics that really should be left to government Ministers. No other backbencher is doing this. There may be something more to it. Last time this happened, Murdoch's fingerprints were all over it. What's the chances that Murdoch is behind this again just to manufacture a story? If i was near a PC i would drag the media watch episode about Aborts intimate dinner with Obama , your wouldnt be far off with your suspicions

http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s4402700.htm

there you go!

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:03pm:

John Smith wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 9:01pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:41pm: John Smith wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:40pm: Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:38pm: Are you not anti the Chinese regime too?! anti Chinese? no, whatever gave you that impression? So you are ok with the conduct of China's Government? really? you got that from me saying I'm not anti Chinese?  ;D ;D Well if you look at my question I asked if you were anti the Chinese regime.

still the same answer. I don't like everything the Chinese govt. does, just as I don't like everything the Australian, English, Italian, RUssian, Greek, German, South African, Japanese, or US gov. does.

Does that mean I have to be anti them as well?

John Smith wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 9:04pm:

Its time wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 9:02pm: Bam wrote on Feb 27th, 2016 at 8:30pm: I'm not happy that Abbott's jetting off all over the world to give speeches on topics that really should be left to government Ministers. No other backbencher is doing this. There may be something more to it. Last time this happened, Murdoch's fingerprints were all over it. What's the chances that Murdoch is behind this again just to manufacture a story? If i was near a PC i would drag the media watch episode about Aborts intimate dinner with Obama , your wouldnt be far off with your suspicions http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s4402700.htm there you go!

My most fav episode to date  :)

bogarde73 wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 12:00pm:

That's crap. Liberal members can voice what opinions they like. Always thus. Only the lickspittles of the ALP have their lips sewn together.

Gary Gray would be very surprised to learn this.  ::)

Why don't you stick to reality?

Andrei.Hicks wrote on Feb 27^th, 2016 at 8:24pm:

If you can't answer - which I suspect you can't then just say so. I can't be bothered on a Saturday morning to play silly buggers. You seem happy with Australia's "diplomacy" on China. I however am not.

you must have noticed by now andrei the left believe in waving the WHITE FLAG...they are terrified of any country in this region....they dont mind sticking their finger up at the yanks...but in Asia   its the good old WHITE FLAG....


shhh Abbott... of course China  believes in aussie values..

dont they make those t/shirts with "F" you on them.. :D :D :D

have you started drinking again?

John Smith wrote on Feb 28^th, 2016 at 9:11am:

have you started drinking again?

Yes indeed.   This thread - that is about a failed Coalition PM who is now a backbencher jetting around the world - with snout in the taxpayer trough - spruiking to anyone and everyone who will listen (and it appears that not many are,  but still)has been taken off track a bit.    If the Liberals are to be seen as a cohesive and viable party they need to shut Mr Abbott up.

If he wants to jet the world enlightening all with his opinions, then do it privately funded and not on behalf of the Australian public!

Not sure what the white flag reference is too, The only people kowtowing lately have been Abbott and Bishop doing a virtual blowie on Indonesia and "Mr Shirtfront" embarrassing us all with Putin.