Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed a commitment to strengthening relations with China, emphasizing that differences should not define the bilateral relationship. In a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday in Canberra, Albanese stated that Australia is ready to work with China to pursue common interests.
“We are pleased to see that Australia-China relations have returned to the right direction over the past two years,” Albanese said. “Australia is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.” He reaffirmed Australia’s adherence to the one-China policy.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, is on an official visit to New Zealand and Australia from March 17 to 21. He acknowledged the progress in overcoming obstacles in China-Australia relations, noting that outstanding issues are being properly resolved.
“China is willing to work with Australia to promote high-level exchanges, resume dialogue mechanisms, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation,” Wang said. He called for efforts to manage and transcend differences in a spirit of mutual respect, aiming to build a more mature, stable, and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership.
During a meeting with members of the Australia-China Parliamentary Group, Wang emphasized that China’s development presents opportunities for Australia. “The journey since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries shows that China and Australia are partners, not rivals,” he stated.
Wang also met with Peter Dutton, leader of the federal opposition, highlighting that the advancement of China-Australia relations is the result of joint efforts by all political parties in Australia. “China is willing to maintain communication and cooperation with friends from all walks of life in Australia,” he added.
Wang’s visit marks a significant step in improving bilateral ties, with both nations expressing optimism about future collaboration in political, economic, and social arenas.
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Australia ready to work with China for common interests: Australian PM
cgtn.com
