China's Youth Diplomacy: A New Chapter in Australia-China Relations

In a strategic move to strengthen ties with Australia, Beijing is actively targeting the youth demographic as part of a charm offensive. ABC News reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping is spearheading efforts to engage with young Australians, including teenagers and university students, to foster stronger bilateral relations.

Following recent discussions between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Beijing's Great Hall of the People, both countries have committed to promoting youth exchanges. These initiatives are aimed at encouraging young Australians to explore China, as China progressively seeks to thaw relations with Canberra after a diplomatic chill.

Beijing's youth exchange plans include offering financial support for travel, accommodation, and cultural experiences. The initiative mirrors the existing Young Envoys Scholarship (Y-E-S) program with the United States, which has faced scrutiny for guiding participants away from sensitive political topics. These exchanges are closely monitored by China's Communist Party, raising concerns over political influence amid growing unease about the role of Confucius Institutes abroad.

(With inputs from agencies.)