China reality mugs Keating’s Asia vision

Keating's original insight was laudable – Australia did indeed require enhanced engagement with Asian countries - but in his zeal to attack his conservative political opponents for their Anglosphere comfort, he has swung to an alarmingly naïve embrace of an authoritarian hegemon.

The way forward will clearly entail adjustments to the Keating vision.

First, end the silly claim that Australia is part of Asia, and accept that we inhabit a different continent, that we have a different culture, and that our liberal democratic values are integral to enjoying one of the highest standards of living in the world.

Second, reject the view that ever-closer integration with authoritarian China is a good thing, and accept that our national interest will require keeping some distance to protect our liberal democratic recipe for success.

Third, continue our positive relations with our other Asian neighbours, but also pursue stronger coalitions with democratic countries around the world to assist in dealing with authoritarian threats.

Ultimately, the 14 grievances should be seen as the trigger for a comprehensive multi-agency rethink of Australia's strategic posture and foreign relations. China has inadvertently provided Australia with a stunning premonition of a dark future, and we would be unwise not to change course accordingly.