The premier, who arrived in Australia for a four-day trip, sees the pandas as "friendly messengers of China-Australia relations."

The visit marks a significant milestone as it is the first by a Chinese leader in seven years, indicating improving ties between the two countries. The trip is seen as crucial in addressing outstanding trade and consular issues between China and Australia.

Premier Li stated that while Wang Wang and Fu Ni will return to their hometown by the end of the year, China will soon provide another pair of pandas equally beautiful, lively, cute, and younger to the Adelaide Park Zoo. This practice of panda diplomacy has been a longstanding diplomatic effort by China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century.

Aside from diplomatic relations, China is also seeking to enhance its influence in the South Pacific region, working to expand security and economic ties with island nations historically aligned with Australia. This has caused tension between the two countries over the years. Bilateral relations hit a low point in 2020 when former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison called for an international inquiry into the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic in China. In response, Beijing imposed high tariffs, including on Australian wine.

However, during Premier Li's visit, there have been signs of improved relations. Li's Australian hosts took him to a winery, symbolizing the recent lifting of tariffs on Australian wine by China. Upon his arrival in Adelaide, Li expressed a thaw in the diplomatic rift, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, seeking common ground while shelving differences, and mutually beneficial cooperation in the relationship.

Despite these positive developments, differences still persist between the two countries. These include the removal of remaining trade barriers and the release of imprisoned Australian democracy blogger Yang Hengjun, who has been held since 2019. On Monday, Premier Li will meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra, where the case of Yang is expected to be raised. Yang was given a suspended death sentence on espionage charges in February.

Meanwhile, supporters of Yang released a statement expressing concern about his serious and unaddressed medical conditions, urging Prime Minister Albanese to demand his release on medical parole during the meeting with Premier Li.

Overall, Premier Li's visit and the offer of new pandas to Australia highlight the ongoing efforts to improve relations between China and Australia. While challenges remain, both countries see the visit as an opportunity to address outstanding issues and pave the way for stronger cooperation.