Former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has addressed a trade forum organised by a Chinese propaganda body and state-run media outlet, aimed at encouraging “regional exchange and cooperation” surrounding the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The appearance comes despite current Australian ministers being frozen out of diplomatic contact with their Chinese counterparts since 2020 amid an ongoing economic coercion campaign being waged by Beijing against Australia. Rudd delivered his message via video saying free trade played an important role in China’s economic development but he noted that due to political factors, “protectionism” was becoming more prominent, according to state-run media outlet China Daily. “It is hoped that China will continue to adhere to free trade, reform and opening up, and multilateralism, which will benefit the development of China, the region, and the world,” he said. The RCEP Media and Think Tank Forum was attended by 300 individuals including members of …