Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reaffirmed that China remains a “friend” of Australia, even as he confronted Premier Li Qiang over a recent military run-in involving a PLA fighter jet and an RAAF surveillance aircraft.
The prime minister met Li on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, one week after a Chinese Su-35 dropped flares dangerously close to a P-8A Poseidon over the South China Sea.
Albanese confirmed he raised the incident “directly and clearly” during the bilateral, saying friendship meant being able to discuss disagreements openly. “We have disagreements and friends are able to discuss issues. That’s what we’re able to do,” he told reporters.
“He heard the message very directly … I’m accountable for what I say. I made the position directly clear that this was an incident of concern for Australia.”
Pressed repeatedly on how Li responded, the prime minister refused to divulge details.
Albanese emphasised the economic and regional importance of the relationship, writing on X: “Australia’s relationship with China matters. For our economy, our security and the stability of our region. Today’s meeting with Premier Li was an opportunity to continue stabilising our relationship.”
“By having direct discussions and regular dialogue, we can navigate our differences and advocate for Australia’s interests.”
Tensions between Canberra and Beijing have intensified in recent months amid escalating Chinese military activity in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.
The Opposition called on the government to stand firm, with Shadow Defence Minister Angus Taylor demanding an end to “dangerous military activities” by the PLA.
Despite the security concerns, both leaders highlighted “upward momentum” in trade and diplomacy. China is Australia’s largest trading partner, and Albanese insists that “won’t change” as his government works to restore blocked exports and regular dialogue.
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