China's top legislative leader Zhao Leji concluded a four-day diplomatic mission to Australia this week, signaling renewed momentum in bilateral relations. As chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, Zhao emphasized Beijing's commitment to building "a more mature, stable, and productive" comprehensive strategic partnership during high-level meetings in Canberra.
At a working breakfast with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on November 26, 2025, Zhao highlighted the recent stabilization of China-Australia relations following years of economic turbulence. "Our dialogue mechanisms have been fully restored," Zhao stated, noting record bilateral trade volumes exceeding $300 billion AUD this year.
The discussions identified four key cooperation areas for 2026:
Green energy infrastructure development
Critical minerals supply chain integration
Joint climate change mitigation projects
Digital economy innovation partnerships
Australia's Governor-General Samantha Mostyn welcomed China's upcoming role as APEC host in 2026, stating: "Effective China-Australia collaboration will be crucial for addressing regional economic challenges." Both parties confirmed plans to establish a new bilateral climate finance working group by Q1 2026.
While celebrating progress, Zhao reiterated China's position on core interests including matters related to the Taiwan region and South China Sea. Australian leaders emphasized their commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue frameworks established through recent diplomatic channels.
With two-way education exchanges projected to reach pre-pandemic levels by mid-2026 and Chinese tourist arrivals to Australia up 58% year-to-date, cultural ties continue strengthening alongside economic links. Analysts suggest the meetings lay crucial groundwork for next year's APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shanghai.
