Australia Rejects China's Call To Unite On Trade Over Rising Us Tariffs

Australia has rejected China's invitation to form a united front on trade matters, following Beijing's appeal for closer cooperation to counter rising US tariffs, which have now soared to 125 percent on Chinese goods.

China's ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, made the overture in an opinion piece published in the Sydney Morning Herald , urging Canberra and other trade partners to "join hands" with Beijing in responding to shifting global dynamics.

"Under the new circumstances, China stands ready to join hands with Australia," Xiao wrote, suggesting collaboration to navigate global trade disruptions.

However, Australia's Defence Minister Richard Marles swiftly dismissed the proposal, making it clear that Canberra has no intention of aligning with Beijing on trade issues.

"Were not about to make common cause with China," Marles told Nine News. "I dont think well be holding Chinas hand."