Daniel Andrews criticised over appearance with world leaders at Chinese parade

Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has faced criticism after being photographed alongside several authoritarian leaders at a major military parade in China.

Images showed Mr Andrews positioned behind Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, sparking questions about why he attended the event and chose to appear in the official group photo.

Even some of Mr Andrews's long-time Labor supporters expressed surprise at his presence among figures regarded internationally as political pariahs.

Since stepping down as premier two years ago, Mr Andrews has established a private consulting business, with significant ties to Chinese companies. He has also undertaken work with Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest's Fortescue Metals, which has extensive dealings in China.

During his time as premier, Mr Andrews made strengthening ties with Beijing a key priority. He regularly visited China, encouraged ministers to do the same, and controversially signed Victoria onto China's Belt and Road Initiative, despite strong opposition from the federal government. The agreement was later cancelled by Canberra, though Mr Andrews defended it as being in Victoria's economic interests.

China remains Victoria's largest trading partner, and Premier Jacinta Allan is preparing for her first official visit to Beijing within weeks. Unlike Mr Andrews's often low-profile trips, her itinerary is expected to be tightly managed with a focus on trade and investment, including international education.

While federal Labor MPs faced tough questions about Mr Andrews's attendance at the event, Ms Allan offered a more supportive stance.

"It is good for Victoria that Daniel Andrews is held in such high regard by the people of China," she said. "Victoria is an old friend of China and these connections are so valuable for our state."