In a sign of relations thawing between China and Australia, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister (FM) Ma Zhaoxu is set to visit Australia and Fiji this week.
Confirming the news, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a press conference that Ma will “hold the new round of political consultation between the officials of the foreign ministries of China and Australia.”
Thawing of Trade Ties
Ma’s visit to Australia coincides with Australian FM Penny Wong announcing on Tuesday that Canberra will temporarily suspend its case against Beijing at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
“China has agreed to undertake an expedited review of the duties imposed on Australian barley over a three-month period, that may extend to a fourth, if required,” Wong said. “In return, [Australia has] agreed to temporarily suspend the WTO dispute for the agreed review period,” she added.
The federal government has reached an agreement with China over a years-long trade dispute. Foreign Minister Penny Wong says China will conduct an 'expedited review' into the tariffs Beijing imposed on Australian barley. In return, Australia will suspend its WTO action. @SBSNews pic.twitter.com/PosiqQR8SI
— Pablo Viñales (@pablovinales) April 11, 2023
Meanwhile, China has issued an invitation “in principle” for Australian PM Anthony Albanese to visit Beijing later this year. While there is no set date for the meeting yet, it is expected to take place around September and October to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the first visit to China by an Australian PM.
History of Escalating Tensions
Tensions between the two countries began to mount after former Australian PM Scott Morrison and FM Marise Payne repeatedly called for an international investigation into the coronavirus pandemic, including its source, how it spread, and China’s culpability.
In addition, Morrison’s government continually expressed concerns over human rights abuses in China.
Subsequently, China suspended trade with Australia and imposed anti-dumping duties and tariffs on several Australian exports, including wine and barley.
In retaliation, Australia abandoned China’s Belt and Road Initiative. In June 2021, Australia approached the WTO to launch proceedings against China for unjust tariffs on Australian goods.