Albanese’s friendly reception in Beijing marks a temporary thaw in chilly relations | Anthony Albanese

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s successful six-day visit to China, characterized by fruitful business events and diplomatic talks with President Xi Jinping, signals a significant improvement in Sino-Australian relations. Notably, the visit included a special lunch for Albanese and his fiancée, Jodie Haydon, showcasing Australia’s musical heritage through songs like Paul Kelly’s “To Her Door” and Midnight Oil’s “Power and the Passion.” This warm interaction stands in stark contrast to the strained relations of a few years ago, marked by China imposing trade bans on $20 billion worth of Australian exports under Scott Morrison’s government. Albanese’s cautious approach in discussing sensitive issues like foreign investment controls and the Port of Darwin’s management highlights a strategic balancing in the relationship. The visit, praised by Chinese state media as a breakthrough, is expected to encourage more Chinese tourism in Australia and could pave the way for further cooperative initiatives.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jul/17/albanese-australia-warm-welcome-beijing-tensions-china-xi