The current diplomatic confrontation between Australia and China poses the biggest political and trade challenge since the early days of World War II. In the absence of any short-term political solutions, constructive re-engagement requires second-track diplomacy and informal ‘backchannel’ engagement involving civil society, business and individuals.

The simple reality is that first-track diplomacy between the Australian and Chinese governments is currently marked by insults and mutual disrespect. The gap seems to be widening, with positions polarisingby the day. China does not need Australia and it is prepared to bludgeon our exporters to make a political point to the Australian government.