Chinese premier’s Australia visit: Navigating with cautious optimism

From the editor’s desk

By Anirudh Sharma

As Chinese Premier Li Qiang embarks on his landmark visit to Australia, marking the first such visit since 2017, there is a palpable air of cautious optimism.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's warm reception of Li Qiang, and the series of highprofile engagements planned, underscore a critical juncture in Australia-China relations. This visit, spanning Adelaide, Canberra, and Western Australia, is poised to test the waters of diplomacy, economic cooperation, and strategic alignment between the two nations.

Economic and trade relations: A delicate balance

China remains Australia's largest trading partner, with significant stakes in resources and energy exports. The economic symbiosis is evident as Australia supplies a substantial portion of China’s iron ore, and China invests heavily in Australian mining projects. However, recent blocks on Chinese investments in critical minerals, justified on national interest grounds, highlight the delicate balance Australia must maintain. Prime Minister Albanese’s pragmatic approach, assessing foreign investments on a case-by-case basis, seeks to foster growth while safeguarding national interests.

The easing of China's trade restrictions, imposed during the 2020 diplomatic dispute, signals a thawing of tensions. Yet, Albanese's agenda includes addressing remaining barriers on lobsters and seafood, crucial for Australia's agribusiness. This pragmatic focus on economic recovery, while navigating the geopolitical minefield, is a strategic necessity.

Diplomatic and security concerns

Premier Li’s visit is not merely an economic endeavor but a diplomatic tightrope walk. Albanese’s intent to raise the case of Australian writer Yang Hengjun, facing a suspended death sentence in China, and recent defense incidents, including a Chinese military jet’s aggressive manoeuvre near an Australian helicopter, highlights ongoing security concerns. These issues demand a firm yet diplomatic stance, balancing human rights advocacy with strategic engagement.

Public sentiment and bilateral relations

Public sentiment towards China remains skeptical. A recent poll by the Australia China Relations Institute reveals that 74% of Australians feel the country is overly reliant on China, while 71% perceive Beijing as a security threat. This mistrust is compounded by concerns over China’s global data monitoring practices, extending beyond TikTok to various other platforms and online games, as highlighted by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute.

Despite these challenges, Albanese emphasizes the importance of showcasing Australia's values, the strengths of its people, and the robustness of its economy. This visit offers an opportunity to advance Australia’s interests through direct, stable dialogue, focusing on mutual benefits and realistic diplomatic engagement.

Educational and research collaborations

The visit also delves into the educational realm, with discussions on Australia’s plan to cap international student numbers. Given that China is a significant source of international students, these talks are crucial.

The recent meeting between Australian university leaders and their Chinese counterparts underscores the economic and social benefits of educational ties.

A balanced approach, addressing housing and rental stress while maintaining robust international education links, is essential.

A new chapter in bilateral relations

Premier Li’s visit symbolizes a potential new chapter in Australia-China relations. Both nations, recognizing the need for stable ties, are poised to explore common goals in climate change, energy transition, and technological innovation. The business roundtable in Western Australia, featuring leaders from both countries, highlights a shared commitment to economic cooperation and mutual growth.

Manoeuvring with optimism

Premier Li Qiang's visit to Australia is a significant diplomatic event, marked by cautious optimism. The visit offers an opportunity to rebuild trust, enhance economic ties, and address critical issues through dialogue and cooperation. While challenges persist, the visit symbolizes a step towards a pragmatic and stable relationship, reflecting a shared commitment to mutual respect and benefit.

(The writer is a freelance journalist who has studied China and its global impact for years. The views expressed are his ow