China tries to step up pressure on Australia with warning to students
- Beijing’s advice follows caution to tourists to stay away because of rising racism
- China has also limited imports of Australian barley and beef after Canberra’s push for an inquiry into origins of Covid-19 angered Beijing
On Tuesday the Chinese Ministry of Education issued a warning about studying in Australia, citing the risks from Covid-19 and increasing discrimination against people of Asian descent.
“The Ministry of Education reminds overseas students to conduct proper risk assessments, and at this time take caution in choosing to go to Australia or return to Australia for their studies,” it said.
Last Friday the Ministry of Culture and Tourism issued a similar warning that said Chinese citizens should “by no means travel to Australia” because of an increase in racist incidents.
With few exemptions, the country’s borders are closed to non-permanent residents or citizens as part of its coronavirus control measures although restrictions are expected to be eased next month.
Observers in China and Australia said the statements were clear warning shots over what Beijing perceived as anti-China sentiment in Australia, adding there was little prospect of relations improving soon.