Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Friday to discuss bilateral ties on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Wang expressed appreciation for Australia's repeated commitment to the one-China principle and emphasized the importance of continuing to respect China's core interests and major concerns. He highlighted the need to safeguard the political foundation of the bilateral relationship and properly manage their differences.
Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, Wang noted that China-Australia relations have stabilized. He added that returning to a path of sound and stable development serves the common interests of both sides and aligns with the aspirations of their peoples.
Wang emphasized China's willingness to work with Australia to build a more mature, stable, and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership. In light of the current complex and volatile international situation, he advocated for true multilateralism and urged major countries to oppose efforts to reverse historical progress and resist a return to the \"law of the jungle.\"
Furthermore, Wang stated that China is ready to collaborate with the international community, including Australia, to defend the victorious outcomes of World War II and uphold the international system centered around the United Nations.
Responding to Wang's remarks, Minister Wong highlighted the positive strides China and Australia have made in various fields, noting that economic and trade relations have fully recovered, sending positive signals for the future.
Wong reaffirmed Australia's adherence to the one-China policy and expressed willingness to continue strengthening cooperation with China in areas that serve their respective national interests. She emphasized the importance of upholding the international rule of law and strategic security, as well as jointly addressing global challenges.
