By Caitlyn Rintoul
Publication Date: 2026-01-28 05:12:00
Beijing’s envoy in Canberra called Australia’s opposition to cooperation on artificial intelligence a “great shame” and warned: “A move away from China means a turn away from opportunities.”
Xiao Qian said China was willing to work with Australia to advance AI, quantum technology, biomanufacturing and green energy, and called on Canberra to cooperate on a “strategic direction.”
The Chinese ambassador to Australia’s comments came after Beijing unsuccessfully tried to add AI and digital technology to the two nations’ free trade agreement in 2025, promising the move would boost productivity.
He noted there had been a “cautious attitude” in Australia and questioned why the “door was completely closed”.
“Embracing China means embracing the future. Turning away from China means turning away from opportunities,” Qian said on Wednesday.
“It’s a great pity that the situation is like this. In my opinion, we should cooperate between China and Australia…”
