Former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has argued that the global landscape is witnessing a more resolute and focused leader in the form of US President Donald Trump during his second term, suggesting that this presents a significant opportunity for China to exploit the situation. In a recent Bloomberg interview, Turnbull remarked that Chinese President Xi Jinping could adopt a contrasting diplomatic approach, essentially taking on the role of an “anti-Trump,” marked by consistency and respectfulness in contrast to Trump’s chaotic and abrasive style.
Turnbull posits that Xi’s strategy could lead to increased trust among nations, positioning China as a more appealing partner compared to the erratic nature of Trump’s leadership. This sentiment indicates that China may leverage Trump’s “massive advantage” to enhance its international standing.
In the wake of these comments, Trump expressed his disdain for Turnbull on his Truth Social platform, labelling him a weak leader who misunderstands China’s intentions. The public spat between the two highlights the ongoing tensions between Australian officials and the Trump administration, especially in light of Australia seeking an exemption from impending US tariffs on steel and aluminium exports, which are expected to impact over $1 billion worth of goods.
Turnbull remarked that persuading the US to grant an exemption would likely be more challenging this time around, given Trump’s possible reluctance to create precedents for multiple exemptions. He pointed out that Trump’s inclination to dismiss “exemptions” could complicate negotiations, contrasting with past efforts when Turnbull was in office.
In a series of high-stakes discussions, Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Australia’s ambassador to the US, former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, have engaged with senior members of the Trump administration, advocating for Australia’s economic interests. Current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has also underscored that it serves both Australia’s and the US’s economic benefit to grant an exemption.
Turnbull pointed out that Australia’s economic reliance on the US is less pronounced than that of Canada, yet he warned that the more significant risk lies in a potential slowdown of the global economy, particularly that of China, which is a crucial market for Australian exports.
Furthermore, Turnbull clarified the circumstances of his departure from office, stating that he was replaced by Scott Morrison not through an election loss, but rather due to internal party dynamics triggered by poor polling and dissatisfaction within the Liberal Party.
This exchange reflects the complexities of international relations amid evolving leadership styles and economic policies.