The second most influential Chinese politician has arrived in Australia.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang embarked on a visit to Australia, with the goal of strengthening relations between the two countries. This visit marks the first time in seven years that a Chinese premier has visited Australia, and it is expected to pave the way for President Xi Jinping's first trip to the country since 2014.

During his visit, Li is scheduled to visit Adelaide Zoo and a Chinese-controlled lithium processing plant in Kwinana Beach, as well as Parliament House in Canberra. These visits highlight China's interest in investing in critical minerals, which are essential for the world's transition to renewable energy sources.

The relationship between China and Australia has faced challenges in recent years, particularly under the previous coalition government. However, with the election of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in 2022, China has initiated a reset of the bilateral relationship.

Despite this reset, there are still tensions between the two countries, particularly in regards to trade and security. China had imposed various trade blocks on Australian exports, which have since been lifted except for live lobster exports. However, Trade Minister Don Farrell predicts that this last impediment will also be lifted soon after Li's visit.

There is also a gap in expectations between Beijing and Canberra, with China wanting to launch into a more cooperative relationship while Australia remains cautious due to concerns about security threats. Li's visit is seen as an opportunity to address these issues and move towards a more positive relationship.

In addition to economic and political engagements, Li's visit also includes a cultural element. He is expected to visit Adelaide Zoo, which has been home to two giant pandas from China since 2009. Li will also announce the replacement of these pandas with a new breeding pair after they return to China in November.

While the economic relationship between China and Australia is on the path to recovery, the security relationship is still tense. Recent clashes between the two countries' militaries in the South China Sea and Yellow Sea will likely be discussed during an annual leaders' meeting on Monday.

Li's trip to Australia is part of a larger tour that also includes New Zealand and Malaysia. In New Zealand, Li emphasized the strong relationship between the two countries, while also expressing concerns about their potential involvement in a military technology sharing arrangement with Australia and the US.

Overall, Li's visit is seen as a step towards repairing and strengthening the relationship between China and Australia. However, there are still challenges and tensions that need to be addressed in order to build a truly cooperative and positive relationship between the two nations.

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