【By Liu Bai, Observers Network】On July 16, Australian Prime Minister Albanese arrived in Chengdu, the last stop of his visit to China. On July 17, Albanese told the media that this visit to China was "very successful," and his focus was to "reach more consensus and reduce differences" with China. Albanese praised this visit, saying he saw China as a confident and innovative country. He also specifically mentioned that the architectural style of Chengdu was the most avant-garde he had ever seen.

According to The Guardian, Albanese summarized that this was a "very successful" visit, and that Australia-China relations should focus on "the present and future, not the past."

"The issues we discussed mainly focused on the present and future, not the past. This is also a direction I am very concerned about. What I am talking about is the potential for developing bilateral relations and opportunities for further deepening economic relations."

Albanese said in Chengdu that both sides signed a bilateral trade and tourism agreement, and his meeting with Chinese leadership proved the success of the visit.

Albanese visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Visual China

He said the focus of this trip was to enhance consensus with China and reduce differences. He believed that compared to the previous period when the Australian Liberal Party was in power, there are now more opportunities for cooperation between the two countries.

"If you look at my visit this time, and then compare it with the failure of the Liberal Party during their previous term — which was when I was the leader of the opposition — you will find that they had no ministers who even called our main trading partner (China) during their administration."

Albanese continued, "Now we have constructive interactions... For example, Australia's four major resource and iron ore exporters — BHP, Rio Tinto, FMG and Hancock — can sit down and communicate with their Chinese buyers, which is a huge benefit for Australia."

Albanese expects to continue dialogue with Chinese leaders on cooperation topics. "I hope we can regularly discuss these issues and reach as much consensus as possible... Based on mutual understanding, greater cooperation can be achieved."

July 16, Beijing, Albanese and his fiancée Judy Hayden walking along the Great Wall. Visual China

Albanese said this visit made him see China as a confident and innovative country, full of foresight.

"China is confident about its future, and when you are in this city (Chengdu)... the architecture here is more avant-garde than any city I have been to globally. It is obvious, they are new, full of vitality and creativity," he said.

Albanese also refuted criticism from the opposition about his visit to the Great Wall and the panda base. He said, "The Great Wall symbolizes China's extraordinary history and culture, and showing a little respect never does any harm. Do you know what it brings? Return."

On July 17, Albanese visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. He posted on social platform X, stating that the giant panda "Funi" had lived in Adelaide, South Australia for 15 years. This panda "is not only cute, but also part of the long-standing friendship between Australia and China." He added, "This friendship continues, and the giant pandas 'Yilan' and 'Xingqiu' now consider South Australia their home." Albanese continued, "Seeing these adorable 'ambassadors' up close reminds us of the bonds that bring our two countries closer."

July 13, Shanghai, Albanese walked along the Bund with former Australian footballer and coach of Shanghai SIPG Kevin Muscat. Visual China

Invited by the Chinese side, Albanese officially visited China from July 12 to 18. This is Albanese's second visit to China since becoming the Australian Prime Minister.

Albanese said in Shanghai on July 13 that Australia and China should "deal with each other in a calm and consistent manner." He said, "We hope to continue pursuing national interests, and maintaining good relations with China is in our interest."

This visit has also received high praise from Australian media. On July 14, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported that in the context of an uncertain international environment, the Chinese government is laying out a "red carpet" to warmly welcome Albanese's visit, and it is entirely reasonable for the Australian Prime Minister to visit China before meeting U.S. President Trump, as China is more important than the United States at present.

Australian media also pointed out that the current Australian government is taking a more balanced approach in handling Australia-China relations, and is also sending a clear signal to the outside world: this government will take a more independent foreign policy, no longer afraid of offending the United States as in recent years.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning previously stated that under the guidance and joint efforts of the leaders of the two countries, Sino-Australian bilateral relations have continued to improve and develop. "China is willing to take this visit as an opportunity to enhance mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and promote the development of Sino-Australian relations."

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Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7527947471398486555/

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