The first visit by a federal treasurer to China in seven years will help to stabilize ties with Australia’s largest trading partner, according to Jim Chalmers. Chalmers is scheduled to meet with major Chinese economic officials during his visit to Beijing on Thursday and Friday. This meeting comes as diplomatic relations between the two countries have improved and economic sanctions on several Australian goods, such as wine and barley, have been eased. It will be the first time an Australian treasurer has visited China since Scott Morrison in 2017.
Chalmers stated that the purpose of this trip is to establish a stronger relationship between the two countries. He emphasized the importance of engaging with China, despite the complexities involved. During his two-day visit, Chalmers will hold talks with officials from China’s National Development and Reform Commission, focusing mainly on Australia’s strategic economic dialogue with China.
“A more stable relationship, particularly economically, between Australia and China is beneficial for our workers, businesses, investors, and our country as a whole,” said Chalmers.
These discussions in Beijing coincide with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s talks with world leaders at the Quad leaders’ summit in the United States. The summit has addressed concerns about Beijing’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region. However, Chalmers believes that managing economic ties with China can be done simultaneously while addressing other issues involving the Asian nation.
“Stabilizing our relationship with China is a key economic priority that we can pursue alongside managing complexities in the region,” he explained. “We have demonstrated our ability and willingness to engage because we believe it benefits our country.”
this visit by Jim Chalmers aims to strengthen economic relations between Australia and its largest trading partner while navigating complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.
