Ms Michelle Grattan
Political Editor, The Age
- The Rudd government is pursuing a highly ambitious foreign policy.
- Like earlier labour governments, the Rudd government places much stress on organizations and structures; for example seeking a security council seat, developing the G20, and proposing the idea of an Asia Pacific community.
- The rise of China is the key element in government thinking about the region.
There is little domestic interest in the Asia Pacific proposal, and critics have said that it was introduced hurriedly and led to some confusion. - Despite numerous criticisms and some of the belief that the Rudd proposal would not eventuate, it is unlikely that Rudd will be deterred.
- Identity issues will continue to be significant for Australians, including in discussion of Australia’s role in the development of regional architecture.