Albanese emphasized a “calm and consistent” approach to China, reaffirming Australia’s interest in a constructive relationship. Xi responded by calling for mutual progress, underscoring China’s readiness to improve ties. The Australian delegation included senior business executives from the mining, tourism, and education sectors — a clear signal that trade remains a top priority.

China currently accounts for nearly one-third of Australian exports, including iron ore, wine, and agricultural goods. Albanese’s visit reflects a continued push to strengthen economic engagement following years of diplomatic friction and trade restrictions imposed by Beijing on Australian products.

Taiwan And U.S. Pressures Cast A Shadow

Despite the business emphasis, Albanese’s trip was overshadowed by strategic tensions. A recent report revealed the U.S. is pressing Australia and Japan to clarify their positions in the event of a military conflict over Taiwan. Canberra has resisted making such commitments. Albanese reaffirmed support for the “status quo” in Taiwan, opposing any unilateral changes.

Washington, meanwhile, is reviewing whether the AUKUS submarine deal with Australia aligns with the Trump administration’s “America First” doctrine, adding further complexity to the trilateral security pact.

Chinese officials reportedly warned that the U.S. push for Australian alignment over Taiwan made it an unreliable partner, reinforcing Beijing’s message that Australia should act autonomously in its foreign policy.

Darwin Port And Geopolitical Tightrope

The issue of the Darwin Port lease, held by China’s Landbridge Group since 2015, remains another source of tension. Albanese has promised to return the port to Australian control, citing security concerns due to its proximity to U.S. military training zones in the Northern Territory. China’s ambassador to Australia called any forced sale “ethically questionable.”

Experts say Albanese’s diplomacy reflects a delicate balancing act between China’s economic importance and U.S. strategic expectations. “The tightrope along which it’s been walking between the U.S. and China just got pulled tighter at both ends,” said historian James Curran.