Australian Prime Minister Albanese concludes press conference in Beijing

Australian Prime Minister Albanese concludes press conference in Beijing

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese concluded a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, following his meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The visit, which spanned six days, focused on trade, energy transition, and security tensions between Australia and China.

During the press conference, Albanese emphasized the importance of the "cooperate where we can, disagree where we must" policy, which has guided Australia's relationship with China under his leadership. He highlighted the potential for cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence and resources trade, while acknowledging long-standing concerns around China's military build-up and human rights issues.

Albanese's visit coincided with the annual leaders' dialogue and a business roundtable at the Great Hall of the People. The business roundtable featured executives from major Australian and Chinese companies, including mining giants Rio Tinto, BHP, and Fortescue, as well as Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD and state-run food group COFCO. The presence of these companies underscores the significant economic ties between the two nations.

However, the visit was not without its controversies. Chinese officials have expressed interest in expanding a decade-old free trade deal, but cooperation is likely to be constrained by ongoing concerns around China's military activities and the jailing of Australian writer Yang Hengjun. Additionally, Beijing has criticized Canberra's increased screening of foreign investment in critical minerals and Albanese's pledge to return a Chinese-leased port to Australian ownership.

Albanese's visit comes amid increasing geopolitical tensions in the region. Japan, for instance, has raised strong caution against China's rapid acceleration of military activity in extensive areas from around its southwestern coasts to the Pacific. The Japanese Defense Ministry cited China's growing joint operations with Russia, increasing tension around Taiwan, and threats from North Korea as significant security concerns.

The visit also coincides with a ruling by Germany's constitutional court on a claim against Berlin over US strikes in Yemen. The court is set to decide whether Germany can be held partly responsible for US drone attacks on Yemen due to signals sent through the Ramstein air base. This case has implications for Germany's responsibility toward third countries in international conflicts.

In conclusion, Albanese's visit to Beijing highlights the complex and evolving relationship between Australia and China. While there is potential for cooperation in certain areas, long-standing concerns and geopolitical tensions remain significant factors shaping the bilateral relationship.

References:
[1] https://www.arabnews.pk/node/2608121/world