Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Adelaide on Saturday for an official visit to Australia, expressing China’s readiness to work with Australia for a more mature, stable, and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership. This visit marks a significant step in enhancing bilateral ties between the two nations.
Upon his arrival at Adelaide Airport, Premier Li was welcomed by Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and South Australia’s Premier Peter Malinauskas. He expressed optimism about the long-standing friendship between China and Australia, stating that the exchanges between the two countries have a long history and that the friendship between the two peoples is ever stronger.
“China is ready to work with Australia for a more mature, stable, and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership, which will be a common asset for both peoples,” Li said.
The visit coincides with the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership established in 2014 during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Australia. Since then, exchanges and cooperation in various fields have accelerated and upgraded, with mutual benefit and win-win cooperation remaining the mainstream of bilateral ties.
Premier Li noted that Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s successful visit to China last year marked the return of bilateral relations to the right track after experiencing twists and turns. “History has proven that mutual respect, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and mutually beneficial cooperation are valuable experiences learned from the development of China-Australia relations and need to be upheld and carried forward,” he said.
During his visit, Premier Li and Prime Minister Albanese will co-chair the ninth China-Australia Annual Leaders’ Meeting and attend a China-Australia CEO Roundtable meeting. These high-level engagements are expected to promote cooperation, development, and friendship between the two nations.
“I am looking forward to an in-depth exchange of views with Australian leaders and friends from different communities on China-Australia relations and issues of common concern,” Li added.
Prior to his arrival in Australia, Premier Li wrapped up a three-day official visit to New Zealand and is scheduled to continue his three-nation tour with a visit to Malaysia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
