【By Observer Net, Chen Sijia】Australian Prime Minister Albanese will make an official visit to China from July 12 to 18, marking his second visit to China since taking office. According to a report by Associated Press, Albanese held a press conference in Sydney on the 11th, stating that it is necessary for Australia and China to have direct contact, and that Australia hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in areas where they can collaborate.

Albanese emphasized that one quarter of Australia's jobs depend on trade, with about 25% of its exports going to China, "which is larger than the combined trade volume of the next four trading partners, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and India." He said, "Maintaining good relations with China means job opportunities for Australia, that's it."

Albanese stated that although there are some differences between China and Australia, it is necessary for the two countries to have direct contact, "we cooperate in areas where we can, express different opinions when needed, and have frank discussions on certain differences."

When asked if more giant pandas would be brought to Australia, Albanese responded, "Fortunately, I clearly stated our support for giant pandas during my last visit to China, which brought giant pandas to Adelaide Zoo. This is not only an important tourist attraction but also a symbol of friendship between our two countries."

He said that Australia and China have carried out a series of cultural exchanges, which have played a very positive role in enhancing mutual understanding between the two countries.

On December 15, 2024, male giant panda "Xingqiu" and female giant panda "Yilan" arrived in Australia's Adelaide by private jet, starting a new round of international cooperation on giant pandas. According to the agreement, "Xingqiu" and "Yilan" will live in Australia for 10 years. On January 21, 2025, "Xingqiu" and "Yilan" made their first public appearance at Adelaide Zoo.

In addition, Albanese revealed at the press conference that the Australian business community strongly supports his visit to China, with business leaders hoping that Australia can benefit from regional trade and cooperation. A business delegation led by the Australian Business Council will accompany Albanese on his visit to China, including executives from companies such as Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton, Fortescue Metals Group, and Macquarie Bank.

Photo from the press conference held by Albanese in Sydney

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) pointed out that recent public opinion surveys show that only about one fifth of Australians regard China as "a threat to deal with," while two-thirds of respondents believe that Australia-China relations are "a complex relationship to handle."

The report states that China is Australia's largest supplier, and trade between the two countries has reduced the cost of living for Australians. A study by Curtin University shows that trade with China has increased the average disposable income of Australian households by 2,600 Australian dollars, equivalent to a 4.6% increase per person.

Australian government and businesses hope to develop "diversified trade," but their goods and services may not necessarily open up markets in countries like the United States. Moreover, the Trump administration in the United States abandoned its trade commitments to Australia. Australia and the United States signed a free trade agreement 20 years ago, but now the United States imposes a 10% base tariff on Australian goods.

Therefore, more and more Australians believe that China is a more reliable trading partner than the United States. Australian Trade Minister Farrell previously emphasized that the Albanese government's choices depend on Australia's interests, not on "what the United States wants or does not want," "we do not want to reduce trade with China, we want to increase trade with China."

On July 8, during a regular press conference hosted by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, the background of the visit and China's expectations were introduced. Mao Ning stated that Prime Minister Albanese's visit comes at a time when the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership is entering its second decade. Under the leadership of the two countries' leaders and the joint efforts of both sides, the China-Australia relationship has been continuously improving. China is willing to work with Australia to strengthen communication, enhance mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and promote the development of the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership.

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