This month, the Chinese embassy in Canberra has been busy explaining why black is white:

In recent days, some Australian media and politicians made baseless accusations of China for spreading disinformation, which is completely rubbish. As a matter of fact, for quite some time, some Australian media have been fraught with rumours, lies and malicious slanders against China. Some Australian politicians have also been keen to play up these false information. It is obvious to see who is engaged in stigmatisation, politicisation, sowing division, and undermining international cooperation.

And in Beijing, Chinese government spokesman Zhao Lijian uttered stern authoritarian words:

Australian officials have described the facts of discrimination and violence within their country as disinformation—but what about the feelings of those victims?

I would like to again advise Australia to listen attentively to the voices of the victims, face its problems and self-reflect. To be frank, we do not believe it is in Australia’s long-term interest to manipulate the epidemic for personal gain, disregard facts and undermine international cooperation.

So there is it. Listen attentively, face problems and self-reflect.

Next month, we examine the words of Australian politicians.