How China responded to an attack by Australia’s Defence Minister

China has taken another swing at Australia – this time in response to comments made about Beijing’s conflict with Taiwan.

Defence Minister Peter Dutton says that the conflict between Taiwan and China should not be “discounted”.

Dutton says Beijing is very clear about its reunification goal and people should be “realistic” about activity in the region – including the militarisation of bases across the nation.

China responded to these comments, saying Australia will need to adhere to the “One China Policy” if Australia-China relations are to progress and strengthen. 

Chinese official, Wang Wenbin says Australia must “be cautious in its words and actions and refrain from sending any wrong signals to the secessionist forces of Taiwan independence”.

“We hope that Australia will fully understand the high sensitivity of the Taiwan issue, adhere to the One China principle, be cautious in its words and actions, refrain from sending any wrong signals to the secessionist forces of Taiwan independence.”

Last week, the Australian government cancelled two major infrastructure initiatives, which were negotiated between the state of Victoria and Beijing. This decision follows Beijing moving to block imports of coal and other goods over Australia’s calls to investigate the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Australia’s Foreign Minister, Marise Payne is also reviewing more than 1,000 China-related deals, including a 99-year lease of the Port of Darwin in the country’s north.