The Chinese Balancing Act for Australia

"A true friend," Kevin Rudd said in Beijing "is one who can be a zhengyou, that is a partner who sees beyond immediate benefit to the broader and firm basis for continuing, profound and sincere friendship". How does Australia view China when our no. 1 major trading partner is not a member of the same security alliance? Are our two nations in a sufficiently mature relationship? Where do we stand when western headlines and china cyber-nationalism appear diametrically opposed?

Join our speakers who will discuss the challenges and the opportunities presented by China to Australia, the region and the world. Hear how the first mandarin speaking leader of a western nation, Kevin Rudd, was received in Beijing and whether "zhengyou" is the smart strategy.

Speakers are:
Professor David Goodman is Professor of Contemporary China Studies and has built a dynamic China research hub at the University Technology of Sydney.
Greg Sheridan, The Australians foreign editor, is the most influential foreign affairs analyst in Australia. After 25 years in the field, he is a veteran of international affairs who has interviewed leaders all over the Asia Pacific and America.
Julia Gong is a teacher of Chinese in Melbourne and was active in the Chinese Students Association of Melbourne University when studying for her Masters in Education. Julia also used to be a presenter of English Education programs on chinese television.

This panel will be facilitated by Professor Tony Milner, Professorial Fellow, The University of Melbourne and Asialink board member.

WHEN: Monday, 12th May 2008
WHERE: ICT Theatre 1, 111 Barry Street, The University of Melbourne
TIME: 1.00 pm for 1.15 pm - 2.15 pm
ENTRY: Free of Charge
RSVP: To reserve a seat, please send an email to: events@asialink.unimelb.edu.au with "Zhengyou" in the subject line.