Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese embarked on a historic visit to China, marking the first time an Australian leader has visited the country in seven years. During his speech at the annual China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Albanese emphasized the importance of fostering a bilateral relationship based on dialogue and cooperation, stating that it was in the best interest of both nations.
Albanese’s visit is part of a broader effort to mend relations between Australia and China, which had deteriorated over the years due to disagreements involving Chinese telecoms firm Huawei, espionage allegations, and issues related to COVID-19.
In his address, Albanese characterized the relationship between Australia and China as “mature” and highlighted the vitality of their economies, which complement one another. He stressed the role of rules-based trade in providing certainty and stability, stating that both countries, along with others in the region, had prospered as a result.
Albanese’s government has been actively working to strengthen ties with China since assuming office, and China has reciprocated by lifting many trade restrictions imposed during a diplomatic dispute in 2020, which had a significant economic impact, costing Australia $20 billion in commodity and food exports.
