In a symbolic meeting between the leaders of Australia and China, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged light-hearted banter about pandas and Tasmanian devils, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve bilateral relations between the two countries. The meeting, happening during Albanese's historic visit to China, signifies a significant shift in the previously strained ties.

Albanese's visit marks the first by an Australian leader to China in seven years, underscoring the previous deterioration in relations and the current efforts to stabilize and strengthen the bond between the two nations. Both leaders highlighted the gradual improvement in ties over the past year and the importance of engaging with each other despite disagreements on issues such as defense.

Trade, a crucial aspect of the relationship between China and Australia, was a key topic discussed during the meeting. China, being a major market for Australian products, has lifted some trade restrictions on Australian goods since the leaders first met in November 2022. This development has facilitated freer trade flow, benefiting both countries.

While bilateral ties faced challenges in recent years due to concerns over Chinese interference in Australian politics and Australia's call for a COVID-19 origins inquiry, progress has been made in overcoming these hurdles. China imposed tariffs and trade barriers that reportedly cost Australian exporters up to 20 billion Australian dollars ($13 billion) annually for products such as coal, wine, beef, barley, and lobsters. However, these barriers have now been significantly reduced, with the cost estimated at around $2 billion Australian dollars ($1.3 billion). China has also indicated its intention to lift punitive tariffs on Australian wine, which dealt a severe blow to the industry.

During the meeting, the leaders engaged in a friendly debate about the quality of wine, with Xi mentioning his positive experience with New Zealand wines. Albanese proudly asserted Australia's pre-eminence in producing quality red wine. Additionally, Xi charmed the Australian delegation by describing Tasmanian devils as "cute," prompting Albanese to assert that they might not be as adorable as pandas. Xi playfully responded by referencing the animated film "Kung Fu Panda," highlighting the warm exchange between the leaders.

While discussing bilateral issues, Albanese also raised the case of Australian democracy blogger Yang Hengjun, who has been detained in China for nearly five years. However, details of Xi's response were not disclosed. It is worth noting that China recently released Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who had been detained for three years on charges of espionage, contributing to the easing of tensions.

Despite the positive tone of the visit, Australia is actively pursuing a security partnership with the United Kingdom and the United States, which China interprets as an effort to counter its influence in the region. Nevertheless, Albanese emphasized the importance of high-level dialogue and people-to-people links in maintaining a constructive relationship with China.

Albanese's visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of the first trip by an Australian prime minister to the People's Republic of China. Xi acknowledged the significance of the visit, stating that it builds upon the past and sets the stage for the future. Reflecting on the historic connection, Albanese mentioned former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam's visit to the Temple of Heaven in Beijing in 1973, highlighting the enduring importance of engagement between the two countries.

The visit not only demonstrates the desire to improve relations and trade but also underscores the need for open communication and understanding in addressing differences. As bilateral ties continue to evolve, both Australia and China are striving to navigate a path of cooperation and mutual benefit.