Australia, China phone call focuses on energy security
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he discussed regional energy security on the phone with his Chinese counterpart Li Qiang as China’s fuel export ban worsens energy shortages linked to the Iran war.
China is a major fuel source for Asia and last year supplied a third of Australia’s jet fuel.
Chinese authorities banned fuel exports to protect the domestic market, although the government did not approve the decision.
Many countries in the region, including Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, have asked China to grant exemptions and say it is considering allowing small exports to countries in need.
Mr. Albanese’s office said the leaders discussed the importance of energy security and agreed to increase communication to support regional energy security.
Mr Li said the international situation was chaotic, but there was no mention of energy security or fuel in the information from state news agency Xinhua.
The statement also stated that the leaders discussed cooperation in clean energy and electric vehicles.
Mr Albanese said he was looking forward to visiting China for the APEC Leaders Meeting in November, where he will meet with Li.
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