Anthony Albanese to meet Xi Jinping in long-awaited China visit

• Anthony Albanese to meet Xi Jinping in long-awaited China visit.
• Trade is expected to be a top priority on the agenda.
• Mr. Xi is likely to request increased access to key Australian sectors.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese President Xi Jinping are preparing for discussions aimed at alleviating years of strained relations in Beijing.

Mr. Albanese arrived in Shanghai on Saturday, becoming the first Australian leader to visit China since 2016. This visit is seen as a pivotal moment in thawing the frosty relations that have been marred by a series of trade and security disputes.

Trade is expected to be a top priority on the agenda, with Mr. Albanese advocating for the removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian goods. Conversely, Mr. Xi is likely to request increased access to key Australian sectors.

Mr. Albanese expressed, “What I’ve said is that we need to cooperate with China where we can, disagree where we must, and engage in our national interest.”

This visit comes in the wake of a diplomatic freeze, triggered by Australia’s calls for an investigation into the origins of Covid-19 and the economic sanctions imposed by Beijing on key Australian exports, including beef, wine, and barley.

Furthermore, it coincides with the 50th anniversary of Gough Whitlam’s historic 1973 visit to China to meet Mao Zedong, marking the first trip by an Australian prime minister after diplomatic ties were established.

When questioned by reporters about whether Australia can “trust” China, Mr. Albanese emphasized his past constructive interactions with Mr. Xi, while acknowledging the differences in political systems, values, and histories. He stressed the importance of dealing with each other based on face value.

However, several contentious issues and security concerns will loom over Monday’s talks. Notably, Australian writer Yang Hengjun has been detained in China on espionage charges since 2019, and there is mounting pressure on Mr. Albanese to secure his release.

The growing military ties between Canberra and Washington and Australia’s recent defense posture overhaul, perceived as countering China, may make it challenging for both sides to find common ground beyond economic interests, according to analysts.

Some experts speculate that Beijing may seek greater access to Australia’s resources and renewable energy sectors, but the Australian government has taken measures in recent years to limit Chinese ownership of critical minerals and mining projects.

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