Chaotic world order and rising tensions with Beijing push Scott Morrison to overcome fear of ‘negative globalism’

The Australian government has realised that strengthening international institutions is preferable to the alternative - relying on Trump or Xi

Last October, Scott Morrison continued a proud Australian political tradition and admitted that - despite being prime minister - he has only a passing interest in international affairs.

Days after returning from a lengthy visit to Washington, Morrison explained, almost apologetically, that his various foreign travels had been forced upon him by the unfortunate intrusion of global events. My instincts and passions have always been domestic," he said in a speech to the Lowy Institute. I am not one who naturally seeks out summits and international platforms."