Editorial | China, Australia talks an example to others

Australia’s economic relationship with China may not be comparable with those of bigger nations and trading blocs, but it is shaping as a model for reconciling differences. For nearly three years, with the notable exception of the massive iron ore trade, it has been bedevilled by Chinese trade sanctions and tariffs prompted by Beijing’s displeasure with a call for an independent probe into the origins of the coronavirus, on top of national security measures by its US ally openly targeting China.

During this time Chinese officials declined calls from Australian counterparts.

Something had to give, and a change of government in Canberra has made the difference. Following a meeting between the two countries’ leaders on the sidelines of the Group of 20 summit in November, and the first visit to China by an Australian foreign minister since 2018, respective trade ministers Don Farrell and Wang Wentao have held video talks at which Farrell accepted an invitation to visit Beijing in the “near future”.

A visit by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese later this year has not been ruled out. The outcome is testament to the value of a willingness to talk – a fundamental principle of diplomacy – shown by Albanese’s government, in contrast to the often confrontational foreign policy approach of predecessor Scott Morrison.

Farrell has urged a resumption of unimpeded trade. The 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties last December was the cue for an improvement in relations.