Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described his latest meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping as “constructive,” underscoring the importance of the Australia–China relationship for both nations’ economies, security, and regional stability.
During a bilateral meeting in Beijing, President Xi welcomed the Australian Prime Minister with a message of continuity and optimism. “Prime Minister Albanese, welcome to China again and congratulations again on your re-election,” President Xi said in his opening remarks.
“Over the past three years, you and I have met three times… With joint efforts from both sides, the China–Australia relationship has risen from the setback and turned around, bringing tangible benefits to the Chinese and Australian peoples.”
Highlighting the decade-long comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, Xi added:
“No matter how the international landscape may evolve, we should uphold this overall direction unswervingly.”
In response, Albanese expressed appreciation for the Chinese leader’s hospitality and reflected on his own longstanding engagement with China: “This is my eighth visit to China, but my second as Prime Minister, and I appreciate very much your hospitality,” he said.
“I’m happy to be able to reciprocate Premier Li’s visit by visiting three cities here in China this week – Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu.”
The Prime Minister emphasised practical areas for future collaboration, including clean energy and healthcare innovation.
“In Shanghai, I was very pleased to meet with leading businesses from Australia and China, including important discussions on how we can tackle steel decarbonisation together. In Chengdu tomorrow I will look at where Australia has growing ties, particularly on medical technology and sports.”
In a nod to the shared diplomatic history, Albanese also announced plans to visit the Great Wall, echoing the landmark 1971 trip by Gough Whitlam, who initiated Australia’s formal recognition of the People’s Republic of China.
“Tomorrow I’ll also visit the Great Wall, where Australia’s Prime Minister, Gough Whitlam, who of course, initiated the recognition of the People’s Republic of China when he came as Labor Party Leader in 1971.”
Reaffirming Australia’s commitment to open trade and direct diplomacy, Albanese said: “The Australian Government welcomes progress on cooperation under the China–Australia Free Trade Agreement… Australia will remain a strong supporter of free and fair trade.”
“Australia values our relationship with China and will continue to approach it in a calm and consistent manner, guided by our national interest… Dialogue needs to be at the centre of our relationship.”
Later, Albanese posted on social media following his meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and the Australia–China CEO Roundtable:
“Free and open trade is good for both the Australian and Chinese economies, businesses and people. Today’s CEO Roundtable in Beijing was about developing those relationships, finding new opportunities for growth. Thank you, Premier Li, for hosting us this year.”
As part of the visit, Albanese and his fiancée, Jodie Haydon, were also invited to a formal lunch hosted by President Xi — a gesture seen as both diplomatic and symbolic of improving ties. “I thank you as well for the honour that you have given myself and Ms Haydon, in the lunch that we will share afterwards as well,” Albanese told President Xi. “Xiè xie.”
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