China on Monday (23/10) said it welcomed the Australian prime minister’s visit next month, and said Beijing wanted to “strengthen” ties with Canberra as the two trading partners seek to repair frosty relations.
China’s Foreign Ministry hopes Anthony Albanese’s visit, scheduled for November 4-7 at the invitation of Premier Li Qiang, will help improve relations.
“Healthy and stable China-Australia relations are in the fundamental interests of both countries and their peoples, and are also conducive to regional and world peace and stability,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning.
“China is willing to work with Australia to strengthen high-level exchanges, enhance interaction and cooperation in various fields, promote sustainable development and upgrade bilateral relations, and bring better benefits to both countries,” he added.
Albanese planned the trip after China agreed to review major tariffs on Australian wine that have sparked a worsening row at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
It also follows the release of Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who was deported from China this month after being detained for three years on espionage charges widely considered to be politically motivated.
“I look forward to visiting China, an important step to ensure stable and productive relations,” Albanese said in a statement.
“I welcome the progress we have made to return Australian products, including Australian wine, to the Chinese market.”
This highly anticipated trip will be the first trip by an Australian prime minister to China since 2016. (ab/uh)