Ladies and gentlemen, well may we say 'God Save the Queen', because nothing will save the Governor-General. The proclamation you have just heard was countersigned Malcolm Fraser, who will go down in history as Kerr's cur.
Gough WhitlamRead
Hostility towards China distorted Australia's international affairs for 20 years until 1972, but reconciliation with China 30 years ago had produced a quarter century of constructive bipartisan relations with our region and the world, unmatched in Australian history.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The past hostility towards China negatively impacted Australia's foreign relations, but reconciliation has since led to productive partnerships.
Gough Whitlam highlights how Australia's antagonistic stance towards China shaped its international relations for two decades, causing missed opportunities and tensions. However, he also emphasizes the significance of the reconciliation that began 30 years prior, which fostered a period of unprecedented constructive engagement and bipartisanship in the country's foreign policy, ultimately enhancing Australia's relationships within its region and globally.
Themes
HostilityReconciliationInternational RelationsBipartisanAustraliaChina
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on foreign policy, one might reference this quote to illustrate the importance of reconciliation in international relations.
More from Gough Whitlam
All quotes βAustralia's treatment of her Aboriginal people will be the thing on which the world will judge Australia and Australians - Not just now, but in the greater perspective of history.
Gough WhitlamRead
Conscription is an impediment to achieving the forces Australia needs. It is an alibi for failing to give proper conditions to regular soldiers. We will abolish conscription forthwith. By abolishing it, Australia will achieve a better army, a better-paid army - and a better, united society.
Gough WhitlamRead
I was profoundly embarrassed by it [the White Australia Policy] and did all I could to change it.
Gough WhitlamRead
She was a remarkable person and the love of my life. We were married for almost 70 years. She encouraged and sustained me and our four children, their families and many other people in a life full of engagement with Australians from all walks of life.
Gough WhitlamRead
I have more influence now than when I had the power.
Gough WhitlamRead
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