China’s new ambassador to Australia, Liu Jinsong, has begun his posting in Canberra, signalling a desire for a more approachable diplomatic style. Ambassador Liu revealed he travelled to work on a public bus, engaging in conversations with everyday Australian citizens. He stated he felt “honoured and deeply conscious of the responsibility” accompanying the role. His arrival on Monday was formally announced via a statement on the Chinese embassy’s website. This gesture appears aimed at fostering people-to-people connections and demonstrating a willingness to engage directly with the Australian public. It represents a potentially significant step in shaping bilateral relations between the two nations. The ambassador’s choice of transport has been noted as an unusual, yet positive, start to his diplomatic mission.