Australian PM Signals Push for Stable Ties with China

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in Beijing on 12 July 2025 for a pivotal six-day visit aimed at strengthening economic ties with China. He is scheduled to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with talks focused on trade, regional stability, climate cooperation, and tourism. The visit comes amid heightened global economic uncertainty, particularly due to recent United States tariffs on Chinese goods and China’s response.

Albanese’s trip, announced by both the Australian Prime Minister’s Office and Chinese state media, marks a significant milestone in Australia–China relations. Ties between the two nations have been strained in recent years by trade barriers, diplomatic disputes, and security concerns. Upon arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport, he was received with full diplomatic ceremony. This reception signalled China’s interest in resetting its relationship with one of its key trading partners in the Indo-Pacific.

During the visit, the Prime Minister will attend the Annual Leaders’ Meeting with Premier Li and hold bilateral talks with President Xi. His itinerary also includes stops in Shanghai and Chengdu, where he will meet with Australian business leaders, Chinese investors, and local officials to promote trade, agriculture, green energy, and tourism. “This visit is about advancing Australia’s economic interests while navigating a complex global landscape,” Albanese said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). He emphasised the importance of constructive and pragmatic dialogue with China.

The visit takes place against the backdrop of renewed trade tensions between the United States and China. Earlier this year, the U.S. imposed tariffs of up to 145 per cent on specific Chinese goods. Although these were partially rolled back following negotiations in May, they continue to disrupt global supply chains. While Australia is not directly targeted by these tariffs, it faces indirect effects, particularly in areas like exports and logistics. China, in response, is seeking closer cooperation with regional partners to counteract global economic pressure.

One key issue is the future of the Port of Darwin, which is under a 99-year lease to the Chinese-owned company Landbridge. Albanese has reaffirmed his government’s intention to return control of the port to Australia. Beijing has warned that this decision could affect bilateral trade and investment, although Albanese maintains that national security and sovereignty are not negotiable.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has warned the government not to appear too accommodating to China. “We must engage with China, but not at the cost of our sovereignty or alliances,” he told The Australian, referring to Australia’s ongoing defence partnerships, including the AUKUS pact with the United States and the United Kingdom.

The visit has also drawn criticism over limited media access. Some Australian journalists and commentators have expressed concern about the controlled nature of the coverage, and posts on X have highlighted frustrations over transparency. The Prime Minister’s Office has defended the arrangements, stating they are consistent with diplomatic norms, although public debate on the issue continues.

As Albanese moves through this high-level diplomatic schedule, the outcomes may influence both Australia’s economic direction and its strategic position in the Indo-Pacific. With Parliament due to resume soon, the visit’s results could shape political debate and define Australia’s approach to balancing its regional relationships.