Australia's leaders bolster ties with China

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Created on Tuesday, 08 October 2013 15:30

Written by Editorial staff

This month, a number of meetings are taking place between the leaders of China and Australia to strengthen the tie between these two countries.

As migration agents will be aware, it is in the best interests of Australia to continue building its relationship with China as we head into the Asian Century.

The country is one of our most important trade partners, and an increasing number of people are travelling to Australia from China on immigration visas.

Chinese Ambassador visits NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell

NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell met with Mr Ma Zhaoxu on Tuesday, October 1, at NSW Parliament House.

Mr Ma Zhaoxu was recently appointed as the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China. He travelled to Australia with Consul General Mr Li Huaxin, Political Counsellor Mr Li Ming and Third Secretary Mr Li Jian, all of whom attended the meeting.

Mr O'Farrell said the purpose of the meeting was to build NSW's "economic and cultural ties with China".

In particular, he discussed the government's "China International Market Engagement Strategy", which focuses on fostering investment and trade opportunities between Australia and China.

"We see China as a great place for Australians to do business," explained Mr O'Farrell.

"Over the past five years exports from NSW to China have increased almost 200 per cent to become our largest trading partner."

When he was elected, Mr O'Farrell promised he would visit China at least once a year to ensure the two countries remained close. He has faithfully kept this promises, and said he is looking forward to travelling to China for the third time in June 2014.

Governor-General to visit Chinese President

On October 7, the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Quentin Bryce AC CVO, announced she would be travelling to China for a State Visit later this month.

Ms Bryce was invited to visit the country by President Xi Jinping, whom she last saw in 2010, and will be staying in China from Tuesday, October 15, until Wednesday, October 23.

The purpose of this nine-day trip is to discuss the growing relationship between Australia and China, and how this bond might be bolstered in three key areas: culture, education and commerce.

The Governor-General will be travelling to Beijing, Tianjin, Xi'an and Guilin. She also plans to attend the West China International Fair in Chengdu, where she will speak during the opening session.