Beijing, July 2025 – In a visit heavy with both symbolism and strategic calculations, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrapped up his trip to China with a moving moment: witnessing the activation of a cochlear implant in a young, hearing-impaired Chinese boy. It was a personal highlight, emblematic of the kind of soft-power diplomacy that underscored much of his five-day visit.
While the media at home criticized the trip as “indulgent,” particularly images of Albanese and fiancée Jodie Haydon strolling along the Great Wall or visiting pandas, the Prime Minister maintained the tour was a diplomatic necessity. His itinerary mirrored Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s 2024 visit to Australia and aimed to reinforce ties across business, education, tourism, and natural resources.
A Return to Economic Normalcy
After years of frosty relations that saw $20 billion worth of Australian exports – including barley, beef, and wine – blocked by Beijing, Albanese’s visit marks a diplomatic thaw. High-level meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang resulted in reaffirmed trade links and smoother dialogue. Chinese markets have now reopened to Australian lobsters, a delicacy Li jokingly warned might be eaten “into extinction.”
The Prime Minister emphasized progress over past grievances, saying, “What we discuss is moving forward… not the past.” Yet China has shown little public acknowledgment of its role in the economic rift.
Tensions Beneath the Surface
Despite improved trade, security tensions linger. Chinese military provocations, including sonar pulses directed at Australian naval divers and live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea, have raised alarms. While diplomatic dialogues have resumed, critics argue the government has yet to secure tangible security assurances from Beijing.
Former Home Affairs Secretary Mike Pezzullo commended Albanese for restoring trade relations but questioned the “symbolism” of such a long trip. “They [China] know we’re aligned with the US if things go south – we’re not fooling anyone,” he warned.
Still, Beijing’s silence on Australia reclaiming control of the Darwin Port – despite previous outrage in state media – may signal a strategic softening, aimed at reinforcing economic ties during turbulent times in U.S.-China trade relations.
Looking Ahead
Albanese insists his government is playing the long game. By investing in face-to-face diplomacy and reviving critical bilateral channels, he believes Australia can balance economic partnership with national security.
“This is not about tomorrow’s headlines,” the PM said, “it’s about securing Australia’s future in a complex world.”
