Bombshell: Daniel Andrews Defends Attendance at China’s Military Parade Alongside Putin and Kim Jong-un, Saying It Was a ‘Chance to Meet and Engage with Regional Leaders’
- Daniel Andrews sparks outrage by attending Chinese military parade alongside world leaders with controversial human rights records
- The former Victorian premier posed for a photo with Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong-un, drawing criticism from politicians and human rights advocates
- Andrews defends his decision, saying it was an opportunity to engage with regional leaders and promote Australian trade interests
Daniel Andrews, the former Victorian premier, has ignited a firestorm of controversy by attending China’s military parade, where he rubbed shoulders with some of the world’s most notorious dictators, including Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un.
In a statement, Andrews defended his decision to attend the event, saying it was a “chance to meet and engage with regional leaders” and promote Australian trade interests. However, his attendance has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning his judgment and motives.
Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, distanced himself from Andrews’ decision, saying it would have been “inappropriate” for any government representatives to attend. Greens senator David Shoebridge slammed Andrews, saying he had “put himself in a position” that undermined peace efforts and human rights.
Andrews’ successor, Jacinta Allan, initially defended his connection with China, saying it was “valuable for our state.” However, her deputy premier, Ben Carroll, broke ranks, criticizing Andrews’ decision to attend the parade and suggesting it was motivated by “self-interested business purposes.”
Many state and federal Labor MPs have also expressed shock and dismay at Andrews’ attendance, with one describing it as an “absolute disgrace.” Another MP questioned whether Andrews’ business interests in China had clouded his judgment.
Andrews has a history of fostering close ties with China, having visited the country seven times as premier. He has also registered two companies, Glencairn Street and Wedgetail Partners, which has been linked to Chinese businesses and Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest, a billionaire with interests in China.