Australia's attitude toward Asian values and regional community building

Abstract

Australia's engagement with Asian countries has often been problematic. In recent times, both for economic and security purposes, Australia has sought to deepen its relationship with its Asian neighbors, seeking, among other things, a more formal, ongoing role with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The response of Asian countries has not always been welcoming, with some Asian leaders questioning the value, appropriateness, and consequences of Australian engagement with Asia. This article reviews the policies of successive Australian governments toward Asia, ranging from the more enthusiastic approach of Labor governments to the more ambivalent position taken under the current prime minister, John Howard. While Australia is not in a position to endorse “Asian values,” whatever these may be, neither is it in the country's interest to remain aloof from a region important to its economic prosperity and security.