Australia called for a COVID-19 probe. China responded with a trade war

2020 was a horror year for everyone, but Australian diplomats working on relations with Beijing are likely preparing themselves for more of the same in 2021.

The bilateral relationship between Australia and China hit its lowest-ever point last year, according to former ambassador Geoff Raby.

We’re currently in the middle of a trade dispute with Beijing that seems to be expanding to an ever-growing list of Australian export commodities.

And it seems we can’t go more than a month without either side doing or saying something that offends the other.

Here’s a look back at some of the key diplomatic flashpoints between China and Australia in 2020, and where things might be heading in the new year.

Call for a COVID-19 investigation