Australian Prime Minister Begins Six-Day Visit to China Amid Improved Relations

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to begin a six-day official visit to China starting Saturday, according to officials from both countries. The visit comes as bilateral relations have improved significantly since the Labor Party came to power in Canberra.

As a sign of de-escalation, China lifted its final trade restrictions on Australian imports in December, ending years of trade tensions.

On Tuesday, the Australian Prime Minister’s Office announced that Albanese will hold an annual meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Li Qiang, during the visit. The discussions will cover global political issues, trade, and tourism. He is also scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“China is Australia’s largest trading partner, accounting for nearly one-third of our total trade, and it will remain so for the foreseeable future,” said Albanese. “Trade is now flowing freely, benefiting both countries as well as individuals and businesses on both sides.”

Chinese authorities also stated on Tuesday that “China-Australia relations are continuously improving and developing” thanks to the efforts of both countries’ leaders.