Xi Jinping meets Australian Prime Minister Albanese - CCTV News

Xi Jinping meets Australian Prime Minister Albanese - CCTV News

July 02, 2025

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are expected to meet today in Beijing, marking a significant step in the ongoing efforts to improve bilateral relations. The meeting comes amidst a backdrop of recent political developments and economic considerations.

Albanese's visit to China is part of a broader strategy to stabilize and strengthen diplomatic ties. The Australian Prime Minister has previously indicated his intention to discuss various issues with Xi Jinping, including Chinese military activities and the detention of Australians in China. This meeting is seen as an opportunity to address these concerns and foster a more cooperative relationship.

The meeting is set to take place in Beijing's historic heart, where six journalists from Australian organizations were initially allowed to film but were later stopped by local security guards. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in press freedom and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The meeting is also significant for its potential impact on business ties. The Business Council of Australia (BCA) has expressed optimism that the meeting could set the tone for improved business engagement between the two nations. The BCA will co-host an Australia-China CEO round table in Beijing, the first such event since 2016, highlighting the importance of leader-level engagements in fostering business-to-business relationships.

In addition to the political and diplomatic aspects, the meeting coincides with a significant financial development. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has proposed ending debit and credit card surcharges, a move welcomed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers. This change is expected to take effect from July 2026 and aims to reduce costs for consumers and small businesses as cash usage declines.

The meeting is also being scrutinized by political figures within Australia. Shadow Defence Minister Angus Taylor has questioned why Albanese is meeting with Xi Jinping instead of the President of the United States, Donald Trump. Taylor emphasizes the importance of strengthening the alliance with the United States and balancing the relationship with China.

Overall, the meeting between Xi Jinping and Albanese is a crucial event in the ongoing efforts to stabilize and improve diplomatic relations between Australia and China. The discussions are expected to address a range of issues, from military activities and detentions to business ties and economic considerations.

References:
[1] https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-15/federal-politics-live-blog-july-15/105532168