Anthony Albanese praised in editorial in Chinese state media

News.com.au

6 hours ago

Anthony Albanese has enjoyed a glowing editorial in a state-owned Chinese newspaper, which welcomed his 'friendly' approach to the nation on his six-day trip.
The editorial in the China Daily, however, took a shot at previous prime minister Scott Morrison for not having clear 'judgment and understanding' of the country.
Titled 'Common ground prevails over differences', the editorial was published in China Daily, an English-language news organisation owned by the Chinese Communist Party's Central Propaganda Department.
The release of the editorial coincides with Mr Albanese's planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing's Great Hall of the People.
'Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's ongoing visit to China is not only of significance for the bilateral and trade relations between the two countries, it also sends a message amid the changing global trade landscape,' the editorial started.
'Albanese's visit, which began on Saturday and will last until Friday, is notably long for a state leader, highlighting Australia's commitment to deepening ties and fostering stability amid the uncertain global landscape.'
It continued on to highlight rising tensions with the US and makes a point of criticising former prime minister Scott Morrison.
'Albanese's visit shows that the Australian side has a clearer judgment and understanding of China than it had under the previous Scott Morrison government,' it said.
Australia's relationship with the superpower soured under the Morrison government after Australia called for an investigation into the origins of Covid.
Tariffs were placed on some of Australia's most significant exports to China, including coal, barley, copper and wine.
The editorial noted that tension but praised the 'positive upturn' in China-Australia relations under the Albanese government as 'desirable' to restart negotiations on a free-trade agreement.
Mr Morrison responded to the comments in a statement made to The Australian.
'Having a character reference from the China Daily was never one of my foreign policy aspirations,' he said.
The China Daily editorial highlighted 'difference in terms of geopolitics' between the two nations but welcomed Mr Albanese's trip.
'Albanese's visit, his second since becoming prime minister, is intended as a 'friendly gesture' to ensure the positive development of bilateral relations on a stable track, according to his office,' it said.
'China, on its part, stands ready to work with Australia to take this visit as an opportunity to strengthen communication, enhance mutual trust, expand practical co-operation and push forward the two countries' comprehensive strategic partnership, as the Chinese Foreign Ministry indicated.'