Beijing, (TDI): China-Australia relations have shown positive momentum with a recent increase in high-level exchanges, which experts believe could help both nations manage their differences more effectively.
On Tuesday, top diplomats from the two countries met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, while the fourth China-Australia Strategic Economic Dialogue is set to be held in Beijing.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held discussions with his Australian counterpart, Penny Wong.
Wang stressed the need to foster a more mature, stable, and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.
He urged both sides to avoid defining their relationship by differences, instead focusing on building a constructive and stable future.
Wong, for her part, reiterated Australia’s commitment to working with China to enhance economic and trade ties while engaging in open communication on areas of disagreement.
She also reaffirmed Australia’s adherence to the one-China policy, stating that it remains unchanged.
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Chen Hong, executive director of the Asia-Pacific Studies Center at East China Normal University, praised the increased dialogue, saying it reflects the importance both countries place on deepening ties.
He noted that sustained high-level communication is vital in guiding the overall direction of bilateral relations.
With upcoming elections in both the US and Australia, there is potential for shifts in foreign policy, particularly concerning China.
Chen underscored the importance of China and Australia strengthening dialogue to mitigate any misunderstandings that may arise from these political uncertainties.
Australian Treasurer’s China Visit
Adding to this momentum, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers is set to visit China from Thursday to Friday.
The visit will see Chalmers co-chair the fourth China-Australia Strategic Economic Dialogue alongside Zheng Shanjie, head of China’s National Development and Reform Commission.
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Chalmers’ visit is expected to bolster economic and trade relations while opening avenues for cooperation in areas like climate change and clean energy.
However, experts caution that negative dynamics from recent Quad leaders’ summits could strain China-Australia relations, urging both countries to continue fostering steady and healthy development.
