Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited Australia to mend relations and promote trade following a tumultuous period in diplomatic ties. Arriving in Adelaide, Li focused on panda diplomacy, announcing the loan of a new pair of giant pandas to a zoo. This gesture symbolizes the efforts to restore the relationship between the two countries, which had soured over issues such as foreign interference legislation, Huawei’s exclusion from the national 5G network, and an independent investigation into the COVID-19 pandemic.
The trade relationship between China and Australia suffered significant setbacks in 2020 when Beijing imposed trade blocks on various Australian exports, costing the Australian economy billions of dollars. While most of these bans have been lifted, live lobster exports still face restrictions. Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed optimism that this remaining impediment would also be resolved soon, signaling a positive outcome from Li’s visit. The Chinese Commerce Minister’s presence further indicated a commitment to enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
Li’s visit marked the first time a Chinese premier had visited Australia in seven years and signaled a thaw in relations since the election of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party in 2022. Li emphasized the importance of mutual respect, common ground, and cooperation in fostering China-Australia relations, acknowledging the challenges that had strained the relationship in the past. However, Li’s visit was met with protests from a mix of pro-China demonstrators, human rights activists, and democracy advocates who criticized China’s human rights record.
Despite the focus on trade and panda diplomacy, Li’s agenda took a more contentious turn during his visit to Canberra, where he met with Australian political figures. Discussions included recent military clashes in the South China Sea, the fate of Australian citizens detained in China, and China’s investments in critical minerals, particularly in Western Australia. Li’s visit to a lithium processing plant underscored China’s interest in investing in essential minerals for electric vehicles, raising concerns about China’s dominance in critical mineral supply chains.
Australia’s Treasurer recently ordered Chinese-linked companies to divest their shares in a rare earth mining company, reflecting concerns about national security and foreign investment. When asked about the possibility of Chinese companies investing in critical minerals processing in Australia, Foreign Minister Wong emphasized Australia’s openness to foreign investment while prioritizing the growth of the critical minerals industry. Li’s visit to Australia is part of a larger tour that includes stops in New Zealand and Malaysia, highlighting China’s strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
In conclusion, Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Australia marked a significant step towards rebuilding diplomatic relations and enhancing trade cooperation between the two countries. While challenges and differences persist, both nations expressed a willingness to cooperate in areas of mutual interest while addressing their disagreements. The loan of giant pandas to an Australian zoo symbolizes the goodwill gestures made to improve relations, but concerns remain over human rights issues, military tensions, and strategic investments in critical minerals. Overall, Li’s visit signifies an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to navigate the complex relationship between China and Australia.
