Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews has defended his decision to attend China's military parade in Beijing, where he was pictured alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Andrews described the event as a chance to 'meet and engage with regional leaders', despite widespread criticism for appearing with what some have called the 'axis of upheaval'.
The ceremony marked 80 years since Japan's surrender at the end of the Second World War. Andrews was seen shaking hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the red carpet in Tiananmen Square. In a statement, Andrews emphasised the importance of a constructive relationship with China, Australia's largest trading partner, and noted that he has condemned Putin's war in Ukraine and Iran's attacks.
Australia's ambassador to China did not attend the event, and former NSW premier Bob Carr, who was also in China, chose to skip the parade. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it would have been inappropriate for any government representatives to attend, noting Andrews was there in his private capacity. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan defended Andrews, saying his connection with China is 'valuable for our state', but her deputy, Ben Carroll, criticised the photo, stating it was 'not something I would have done'.
