The hope is for pragmatism to drive a transition process. Obsessive adherence to ideological preferences will not build national unity or a sound foreign policy.
Anthony Albanese will trek the Kokoda track on Tuesday and Wednesday, before attending the Anzac Day Dawn Service. The trek is a favourite with politicians.
The bombing of the Iranian consulate in Damascus and storming of Mexico’s embassy in Quito breaks with accepted diplomatic norms − and could spell trouble.
Diplomacy and national security rely on expertise in foreign languages and cultures. Australia and New Zealand need to address the looming deficit in university foreign language courses.
Young Southeast Asian leaders want greater opportunities to connect with like-minded Australians on issues related to the environment and social and human rights.
We give presents with the best of intentions, but some will probably miss the mark. If this happens, remember it’s the thought behind them that truly counts.
Former US secretary of state, Henry Kissinger has died, aged 100. His legacy, including his involvement in the Vietnam war, is long, complicated and divisive.
At the United Nations and elsewhere, the response by the US and Western Europe to events in Israel and Gaza have been out of step with that of governments in Africa, South America and Asia.