Australian politicians and their staff were reportedly instructed to take extraordinary security measures, including powering down their electronic devices, during a high-level visit from a senior Chinese official in Canberra.
Secret Security Email Circulated
According to reports, the Department of Parliamentary Services distributed a confidential email containing strict security protocols ahead of the arrival of Zhao Leji, chairman of China's Standing Committee of the National People's Congress. The message warned of potential hacking attempts and advised politicians to consider staying off Wi-Fi networks entirely.
The email specifically instructed that "internet-connected devices including phones, tablets and laptops should be powered down" in areas where the Chinese delegation would be moving. For devices that absolutely needed to remain operational, the directive required that phones and iPads be updated to the latest software version and placed in lockdown mode, while laptops should have both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth switched off.
Privacy Concerns During Delegation Movements
The security precautions extended beyond digital concerns. The confidential message also advised that "suites and offices adjacent to the delegation movements may wish to ensure doors and blinds are closed during the visit for privacy."
Zhao Leji arrived in Canberra on Monday for meetings with Governor General Sam Mostyn and parliament's presiding officers. His itinerary included a parliamentary dinner on Monday night and a meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday morning.
Notably, Zhao is not expected to make any public remarks during his visit to the nation's capital, and details of his conversations with Australian leaders have been kept under wraps, adding to the atmosphere of secrecy surrounding the high-level diplomatic engagement.
Visit Concludes After Gallery Tour
Before arriving in Canberra, Zhao had visited Brisbane over the weekend where he toured the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and Arrow Energy headquarters. Following his meetings at Parliament House on Tuesday, his schedule included a visit to the National Gallery of Australia before his departure from Canberra's Air Force base.
The heightened security measures reflect ongoing concerns about cybersecurity in diplomatic engagements between nations. The incident highlights the delicate balance between maintaining diplomatic relations and protecting national security interests in an increasingly digital world.
