Chinese Premier Li Qiang has pledged to deepen cooperation with both Australia's government and opposition during a landmark meeting in Canberra. In talks with Australian opposition leader Peter Dutton, Li emphasized that stable bilateral relations “best serve the fundamental interests of the two peoples” while boosting regional stability.
🔍 Why it matters: As major trading partners since 1972, China and Australia have seen their “comprehensive strategic partnership” drive everything from mineral exports to climate initiatives. Li highlighted plans to collaborate on global challenges like climate change while advocating for multilateralism – a subtle nod to current geopolitical tensions.
✍️ Key quotes: • “Fruitful practical cooperation brings benefits to both peoples” – Li Qiang • “We regard China as a partner” – Peter Dutton
🌱 The dialogue comes as Chinese officials push for Australian sectors to view China's growth “objectively,” with Li stressing that mutual development creates “important opportunities” rather than zero-sum competition. Dutton's opposition party signaled openness to continued communication, calling steady ties “vitally important.”
