The Australian

By Sinclaire Prowse

The idea that a country as small and relatively insignificant as Australia was able secure such a collection of impressive spoils from Julia Gillard's visit to China emphasises the importance of Australia to China economically, but also strategically.

The implications of this relationship for Australia's alliance with the US have not yet been thoroughly examined. Australia has diverged its strategic allegiances between both countries and this has the potential to turn into a flashpoint in the future. It is going to be difficult to diplomatically manage strong relationships with the world's two strongest powers in the occurrence of a regional dispute.

Australia will have to be optimistic that any future significant confrontation between the US and China is avoided due to the unquestionable need to preserve strategic stability and ensure prosperity.

This letter was originally published at The Australian