The Australian government has removed 13 China funded Mandarin language programmes over concerns of heightened China influence in the Asia Pacific region.
The Confucius Institute programme – administered by the Chinese government agency Hanban – teaches China’s official language in 13 public schools across New South Wales (NSW).
However, the NSW government said in a review issued late on Thursday that, while it found no specific evidence of interference, it was improper for the programme to continue.
Concerns over Chinese dollar diplomacy in the region could undermine the sovereignty of small Pacific countries and has moved to increase economic aid and its diplomatic presence in the region.
Australia has also experienced disruption to its coal exports to China, including customs delays. Do you think this move is Geopolitical? Let us know in your comments.
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