Because the state and China signed the "Belt and Road Initiative" memorandum of understanding had not been discussed with the federal government, Prime Minister Mosuisse (Scott Morrison) attacked it, but was attacked by the Governor of Victoria.
Victoria announced last month that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with China's government on the Belt and Road Initiative initiative, making it Australia's first state to sign the Belt and Road Initiative agreement, the Australian news agency reported. It is reported that the details of the agreement between Victoria government and China are currently in a state of confidentiality.
Morrison told reporters in Kunzhou today that he was surprised that the deal signed by government in Victoria had not been discussed with the federal government at all. The state has not sought advice from the federal government on such international relations matters. This is the responsibility of the Federal government, and I hope that government, Victoria, will take a more cooperative way to make this happen. "
In response to his criticism, Victoria Governor Andrews (Daniel Andrews) responded: "I think Morrison might need to talk. The latest prime minister should discuss their policies with the latest trade minister. "if Morrison wants me to apologize for making sure that Victoria companies get the best opportunities from Australia-China relations and the state-China partnership, then I will do it," he said.
Federal trade minister Birmingham (Simon Birmingham) earlier admitted to the Australian newspaper that he had not discussed signing the state and China's "Belt and Road Initiative" with the Victorian side, but that he supported sustainable development projects with clear benefits. "if the state sees opportunities to comply with these provisions, that's what we welcome," he said.
Visiting Foreign Minister Payne (Marise Payne) told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that states and territories often enter into such agreements with their regional neighbours and that the Federal government "encourages states and territories to expand and opportunities for China."
