Beijing (TDI): Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has underlined the importance of keeping lines of communication open with China, saying strong bilateral ties are crucial not only for Australia’s economy but also for regional security.
“Dialogue with China matters, for jobs, our economy, and the stability of our region,” Albanese said in a statement during the final day of his high-profile visit to China.
Albanese noted that one in every four Australian jobs is tied to trade, and with China being Australia’s largest trading partner, the relationship carries enormous weight. “We’ve worked hard to stabilize this relationship. As a result, over $20 billion in trade has resumed,” he said, highlighting new agreements that cover both trade and two-way tourism.
The week-long trip, unusually long by diplomatic standards, marks a turning point in Australia-China relations, which had deteriorated significantly during the previous Australian administration.
Read More: Brittle Alliances, Bold Diplomacy: Australian PM Heads China With a Trade Agenda
In a statement published on Friday by the Australian government, Albanese’s office said the visit was aimed at securing both economic and strategic interests. “Managing this relationship wisely is vital for our nation’s prosperity and regional peace,” the statement said. It emphasized that Australia’s approach would continue to be “patient, calibrated, and deliberate.”
During the visit, China and Australia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to review and strengthen the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement, which turns ten in 2025.
Read More: High-Level Talks Boost China-Australia Ties
China’s Ministry of Commerce confirmed the development, noting that both sides will work closely to implement the deal and explore areas for further collaboration.
The visit reflects a broader effort by both countries to reset ties after years of tension, a move welcomed by business leaders, trade analysts, and regional allies watching closely from the sidelines.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
