Rex Patrick (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

It is quite extraordinary that the government has denied formality on a motion in support of Taiwan, a vibrant democracy and indeed an important trading partner for Australia. This motion is largely based on the words that came from AUSMIN and it just reaffirms Australia's view that any resolution of differences between China and Taiwan must be peaceful. It's a shame that the Senate won't be able to stand and support Taiwan—42 million people who are under some threat from increased rhetoric and increased incursions into Taiwanese waters and air space by Chinese military aircraft.