During a high-level meeting in Beijing, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese discussed strengthening bilateral economic relations amidst growing global financial uncertainty.
At the annual leaders’ summit held on Tuesday, Premier Li expressed China’s desire to deepen cooperation with Australia and pushed back against the rise of protectionist trade policies worldwide. Without directly naming the United States, Li made a subtle reference to the tariff-driven strategies of former President Donald Trump, emphasizing the need for open and stable international markets.
“Amid the current turbulence in the global economy, both China and Australia — as major trading partners — should enhance dialogue and collaboration,” Li said during his remarks to both Albanese and a delegation of top Australian and Chinese business figures. “Our cooperation has never been more significant.”
Following the leaders’ meeting, both governments issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to growing their relationship, expanding cooperation in mutual areas of interest, and managing their differences with wisdom and respect.
Mr. Albanese also participated in a business roundtable, where Li encouraged corporate leaders to act as bridges for economic collaboration and mutual growth. “No matter how the international situation evolves, we hope you’ll continue to champion openness and cooperation,” he told the gathered executives.
The two countries signed six new agreements aimed at boosting trade and business ties in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy.
Li’s comments appeared to reflect China’s awareness of Australia’s concerns over shifting U.S. trade policies, and China’s effort to position itself as a defender of global free trade.
During a separate press interaction, Prime Minister Albanese noted that President Xi Jinping did not directly address Australia’s pledge to reevaluate the lease of Darwin Port to a Chinese company — an issue that has drawn criticism in Chinese media. However, Premier Li remarked diplomatically that he hoped Chinese businesses would be treated fairly in Australia and that market access matters would be “appropriately handled.”
On Wednesday, Albanese is scheduled to visit the Great Wall of China — echoing symbolic trips made by former Australian leaders Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser in the 1970s, highlighting Labor’s historical role in forging ties with China.
The prime minister will then continue his diplomatic visit to the southwestern city of Chengdu, in China’s Sichuan province, marking the final stage of his multi-day tour.
