Indonesia: Australian Prime Minister Mr. Anthony Albanese has confirmed his visit to China later this year, as Canberra aims to improve and stabilize its relationship with Beijing.
The announcement was made during the Southeast Asia summit in Indonesia led by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The announcement came following years of tension related to political and economic issues, including Chinese sanctions imposed on Australian imports.
“I confirmed the invitation from President Xi. That I would accept an invitation and will visit China later this year at a mutually agreeable time,” Mr. Albanese told reporters after meeting Chinese Premier Mr. Li Qiang for talks.
This trip marks the first visit by an Australian prime minister to China since 2016.
Mr. Albanese expressed gratitude to Mr. Xi for the invitation and described his discussions with Mr. Li as productive and optimistic. The Australian PM emphasized the importance of further dialogue between the two countries to enhance their relations.
“This was an important meeting. I told Premier Li that we would continue to cooperate where we can disagree where we must, and engage in our national interest,” Mr. Albanese said.
In November of last year, the PM had a meeting with Mr. Xi during the G20 summit held on the Indonesian resort island of Bali.
Australia sent a delegation consisting of representatives from industry, government, academia, the media, and the arts to Beijing for a dialogue with their counterparts from China on September 7, 2023.
Last week, Australian Foreign Minister Mr. Penny Wong remarked that the discussions were a significant step toward enhancing bilateral engagement and fostering stability in their relationship with China.
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