In a significant diplomatic engagement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese Premier Li Qiang convened on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The meeting, described by Albanese as “positive,” focused on key issues such as Australia’s critical-minerals deal with the United States and recent tensions involving a Chinese warplane. This marked the seventh meeting between the two leaders, reflecting a stabilizing relationship since Albanese’s center-left government took office in 2022. China has since lifted several trade barriers that had previously cost Australian exporters up to $13 billion annually. Albanese highlighted discussions about his recent U.S. visit, where an $8.5 billion critical minerals agreement was signed, underscoring Australia’s strategic role in global rare earth resources amid China’s tightening export controls. Li emphasized China’s desire for an open, non-discriminatory environment for Chinese investments in Australia and expressed willingness to collaborate on green economy initiatives, high-tech industries, and digital innovation. However, Australia remains wary of China’s dominance in critical minerals and renewable energy supply chains, as evidenced by recent government actions to restrict Chinese ownership in key sectors. Albanese also raised concerns over a recent incident in the South China Sea, where a Chinese Su-35 jet released flares dangerously close to an Australian surveillance aircraft. The Australian government condemned the behavior as unsafe and unprofessional, while China accused Australia of violating its sovereignty. Despite these tensions, Albanese stressed the importance of frank dialogue in addressing disagreements, a sentiment echoed in his previous engagements with Chinese leadership.
Australia’s Albanese discusses US minerals deal, jet incident with China’s Premier Li
