Australian PM visits Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu to boost China trade ties amid tensions

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is on a weeklong second visit to China, including stops in Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, to strengthen economic ties and cooperation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The visit aims to build on Australia's stabilized trade relationship with China since 2022, focusing on sectors like business, investment, tourism, climate change, and clean energy. Albanese emphasized a pragmatic approach of cooperation where possible and honest dialogue on disagreements, acknowledging the different political systems and values between the two nations. China's Foreign Ministry expressed hopes that the visit would enhance mutual trust and practical cooperation. The trip occurs against a backdrop of rising global tensions, US President Donald Trump's disruptive tariff policies, and recent improvements in bilateral relations following the resolution of previous trade disputes. Both sides recognize the importance of maintaining a rules-based trading system and managing differences professionally to sustain shared economic interests.