In a significant move towards enhancing bilateral relations, China and Australia released a joint statement following the China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting held from June 15 to 18, 2024. Premier Li Qiang of the State Council of the People's Republic of China visited key Australian cities including Adelaide, Canberra, and Perth during his official visit.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on its tenth anniversary, emphasizing the importance of a mature, stable, and constructive bilateral relationship. They reiterated the principles of the 1972 Joint Communique, highlighting mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit.
Both sides acknowledged the significance of regular high-level engagements and are set to resume the Strategic Economic Dialogue in 2024. Cooperation in international platforms such as the United Nations, WTO, G20, APEC, East Asia Summit, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was also emphasized.
People-to-people exchanges were a key focus, with plans to increase student, tourist, and business travel. Enhanced visa arrangements and more direct flights are expected to facilitate these exchanges. Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed in areas including education, research, climate change, and cultural exchanges.
The leaders outlined plans to expand cooperation in political dialogue, trade, climate action, and border enforcement. The next Annual Leaders' Meeting is scheduled for 2025, with Australia expressing interest in Chinese leaders visiting Australia at a mutually convenient time.
Reference(s):
China, Australia issue joint statement on more dialogue, cooperation
cgtn.com
