Albanese's visit shows close economic links

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's weeklong official visit to China reflects the close economic relationship between the two countries and offers opportunities for greater cooperation in growing sectors amid global challenges, according to Australian analysts.

Other than high-level meetings in Beijing, the itinerary includes trips to Shanghai, where Albanese arrived on Saturday, and Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. The visit covers business, investment, tourism and other major sectors to build on Australia's strong economic and trade links with China, according to a statement from the prime minister's office.

James Laurenceson, director of the Australia-China Relations Institute at the University of Technology Sydney, said a leader's visit "positively impacts the bilateral relationship because it shows confidence and commitment at the highest political level".