This week in Canberra, from November 22 to 25, Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, landed in Australia's capital to kick off a series of high-stakes meetings aiming to cement a more mature, stable and productive strategic partnership between the Chinese mainland and Australia 🌏.
During his visit, Zhao sat down with Australia's Governor-General Samantha Mostyn, enjoyed a working breakfast with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ☕, and held talks with Speaker of the Senate Sue Lines and Speaker of the House of Representatives Milton Dick. The message was clear: under the strategic guidance of leaders from both sides, bilateral ties have returned to a positive track, and the stage is set for deeper cooperation.
Why does this matter? The economic strengths of the Chinese mainland and Australia are highly complementary. Zhao highlighted key areas for mutual growth:
- Energy & mineral resources 💎
- Scientific & technological innovation 🔬
- Digital economy & infrastructure 🌐
- Climate change & green infrastructure 🌱
- Protection of women's rights 👩⚖️
Looking ahead, China will host the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in 2026. Australia expressed strong support for this event, seeing it as a key moment to uphold multilateralism and boost regional ties ✨.
But it wasn't all sunshine: Zhao also raised sensitive issues—Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xizang, Xinjiang and the South China Sea—calling on Australia to respect China's core interests and territorial sovereignty.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasized that there is no fundamental conflict of interest between the two sides. He praised the rapid growth in trade, education, tourism and cultural exchanges, noting how these experiences help the younger generation build lasting friendships.
By wrapping up his visit, Zhao and Albanese agreed to keep lines of communication open and nurture the momentum that has brought their countries closer 🤝. For investors, entrepreneurs and students alike, this renewed spirit of cooperation could spark new opportunities across Asia and beyond.
Reference(s):
China ready to build more mature strategic partnership with Australia
cgtn.com
