The meeting brought together nearly 40 government, business, academic, and cultural representatives from both countries. Li Zhaoxing, head of the Chinese delegation, expressed that both nations demonstrate a stronger will and a clearer direction in developing their relations.

Li underscored the importance of maintaining the momentum of improvement in bilateral ties and implementing the consensus reached by their leaders.

Craig Emerson, former Trade Minister and head of the Australian delegation, highlighted the high priority his country places on the relationship with China.

Emerson noted that both sides should strengthen dialogue to explore areas of cooperation and properly manage existing differences.

The meeting represents the first high-level “track one and a half” dialogue since Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited China in July.

The Chinese-Australian relations have shown significant improvement since Albanese took office as prime minister in 2022.

abo/iff/mem/idm