Premier Li Keqiang and his Australian counterpart, Malcolm Turnbull, held a one-on-one meeting at Canberra’s parliament house in the Australian capital on March 23.

During the meeting, Premier Li spoke highly of the bilateral relationship between China and Australia, adding that bilateral cooperation is expanding in various fields in the 45 years since diplomatic ties were established.

Based on the principle of equality, China and Australia will respect each other’s core interests and concerns, enhance political trust while strengthening strategic communication and pragmatic cooperation, said Premier Li.

According to the Premier, the world is facing various challenges amid complex situations and rising protectionism, and China is willing to work with Australia in safeguarding stability and peace in the Asian-Pacific region and the world.

China will continue to expand its opening-up, and send positive signals of free trade and protection of the current global trade system, injecting lasting impetus into world economic development, said the Premier.

Turnbull said the relationship and cooperation between Australia and China is growing, with frequent high-level exchanges and communication.

Facing unprecedented changes and technical revolution, Australia is willing to enhance mutual trust, and maintain stability and consistency in bilateral ties and cooperation, said the prime minister.

Today, protectionism is on the rise, and Australia will work with China to keep free trade and open markets, bringing benefits to the people of both nations.

Before the meeting, Turnbull held a grand ceremony to welcome Premier Li. Cheng Hong, Premier Li’s wife, and Lucy Turnbull also attended the ceremony.