International relations

THE recent criticisms made by some Coalition MPs concerning Prime Minister Albanese’s recent overseas trips underline their pathetic childishness and their total inability to grasp the relevance and importance of being an effective Opposition.     

Australians have not forgotten the bungles during the nine-year period the Federal Coalition was in government.     Some of the major ones include the Coalition’s mishandling of Australia’s relationship with China, the straining of Australia’s relationship with NZ and the Solomon Islands and breaking the contract with the French Government for the construction of nuclear powered submarines.

The damages bill for the latter to be paid to the French Government is $835m.

This amount, by rights, should come out of the pockets of the Morrison Coalition but, of course, it won’t.    Taxpayers, however, should not forget this appalling cost when the next Federal Election is held.

Returning to Albanese’s recent overseas trip, one of his major achievements was repairing Australia’s relationship and reputation with French President Macron.

This relationship is critical in strengthening Australia’s efforts to counter and resist the extension of China’s influence and presence in the South Pacific.

Australia, in partnership with France, has much to offer in terms of support and development to the governments of the South Pacific nations.

With regards to security, it should not be forgotten that French Polynesia provides a base for French naval vessels as well as a garrison of 8000 or more troops.

The Albanese Government is off to a very good start with every indication that it has a firm grasp upon the complexities of the challenges to be faced and dealt with both within and beyond Australia’s shores.

The Opposition, if it wants to appear to possess relevance, must lift its game.

Robert Armstrong, Mt Barker