Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has criticised ‘an era of divisive, Trump-style rhetoric’ as she announced that she will visit China for the first time since taking up the state’s top job.
The trip is slotted for September and will include trade talks with the government, businesses, educators and communities.
Allan said she hopes to develop “Victoria’s new China strategy”.
The strategy will be built around what the state can offer to China — food and fibre, advanced manufacturing and clean energy, medtech and pharma, tourism and creative industries and international education.
“These sectors are where we stand apart,” she said.
“That’s our pipeline for growth and our offering to the Asian marketplace. They’re built on the biggest strengths of all: our people and our diversity.”
Allan invoked Trump and divisive rhetoric around China in her decision not to shut the door on economic opportunities.
“Over the last few years, we’ve heard unnecessary and divisive rhetoric from conservative politicians that have been hurtful to Chinese Australian families,” she said.
“In an era of tariffs and global economic uncertainty, I want to seize an opportunity for Victoria to create good, stable jobs and drive strong economic growth.
“And in an era of divisive, Trump-style rhetoric here and abroad, I want to make the case that Victorians from overseas are a proud part of our story to the world.”
