Welcome to China’s version of a new world order

With China’s increasing suppression of free speech, merciless and ongoing obliteration of liberty in Hong Kong, persistent and cruel persecution of the Uyghurs and, more recently, the attempted and unwarranted apprehension of Australian journalists Michael Smith and Bill Birtles, our nation ought to be alert to an ominous new reality (“Red flags: Aussies flee China”, 9/9).

It is evident the Chinese Communist Party’s totalitarian juggernaut is fearful of little other than US military might and, more significantly, “ideas”. More than anything else, freedom of opinion — the formulation and expression of liberated thought — is anathema to China’s leadership.

French philosopher Marcel Proust once declared that, “A powerful idea communicates some of its power to the man who contradicts it.” Unfortunately, the ideas of democracy, freedom of speech and freedom of religion, representing the foundation of Western civilisation, including modern Australia, stand in stark contrast to the ideology of contemporary Chinese communism.

Our choice is to defend our cultural traditions, values and beliefs or “kowtow” to what is potentially a new world order led by a totalitarian regime. Personally, I believe US patriot Patrick Henry was correct in declaring in March 1775, “Give me liberty or give me death.”

Lyle Geyer, Essendon, Vic

Han Yang is observant (Letters, 10/9) but his attempt to equate China’s wolf-warrior diplomacy (“a natural extension of its growing clout”) with “similar strong-arm manoeuvres” by the US is delusional.

Every nation in the world, including Iran, has turned to Uncle Sam when struck by natural disasters, overt enemies or economic dystopia — and America’s financial sponsorship of the UN, the World Bank and grants of untied foreign aid represent most of the world’s total generosity.

Certainly, the US is harsh on countries that ignore and abuse human rights; often the only nation to do so. Prior to the decimation of its entire merchant navy in two world wars, Britain led the international community with civility and decorum and America has been an able student and worthy exemplar.

Greg Jones, Kogarah, NSW

That China will continue to punish Australia is to be expected. It’s likely the next export may be iron ore, on which our economy depends heavily. Yes, Scott Morrison did call for an investigation into the origin of COVID and perhaps he should have consulted China first. But when a virus is highly infectious, deadly and capable of destroying economies around the world, it would seem only common decency that the country in which the virus manifested should itself seek a scientific investigation. Xi Jinping should have been the one leading the call for answers, not our Prime Minister. Had the Chinese leader done so, it would have been to China’s credit and would have demonstrated the country to be a responsible world citizen.

B. Della-Putta, Thorngate, SA

A comparison of the detention of two apparently innocent Canadians by the Chinese communist government and that of the Huawei executive in Canada, at US request, is instructive.

The individual being held in Canada is under simple house arrest and has reportedly thanked Canadian authorities for the humane conditions of her detention. Nothing is known about the two Canadians in China. We must assume the worst.

Kerry MacDermott, Binalong, NSW

A few weeks ago The Australian revealed that dozens of researchers at universities across the country had been recruited by China’s Thousand Talents Plan, calling their loyalties and affiliations into question. Now we’re told six Chinese nationals — academics and journalists — will have their re-entry permits cancelled or be shown the door if they’re in Australia. It’s starting to look like we’re dealing with a nightmarish iceberg here, with just enough showing above the waterline to get our attention.

John McHarg, Maylands, WA

The forced departure from China of Australian journalists Bill Birtles and Mike Smith is immensely disappointing. The move consequently means Australia has no remaining accredited journalists based in China. It is a sad moment for Sino-Australian relations. It is a great loss for Australia as it is no longer able to chronicle the story of China — one that remains of significant importance.

John Varano, Waverley, Vic