Tony Abbott's promise to 'shirt front' Russian president Vladimir Putin has led critics to argue he is temperamentally unsuited to conducting foreign policy. In fact, he has made a good start to this part of the prime minister's job.
Three strengths of Abbott's foreign policy – and three concerns – stand out. Foreign policy is central to this government. This is partly a function of events, including the disappearance of MH370, the downing of MH17 and the rise of Islamic State. But it also reflects the personalities of the key players. National Security Committee meetings are frequent. Foreign Minister Julie Bishop is the government's outstanding cabinet minister. Treasurer Joe Hockey is focused on the G20 leaders summit in Brisbane.
And the Prime Minister himself is plainly ambitious when it comes to the world.
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