Fuel security, trade in focus for minister’s Asian trip
Australia’s foreign minister will hold important talks with his Chinese counterpart as he also aims to make fuel deals with its close Asian neighbours.
Penny Wong will fly out on Monday ahead of a week-long trip to Japan, China and South Korea, where trade and fuel security will be high on the agenda.
Senator Wong will meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing as part of annual talks.
“The Australian government is committed to a stable and constructive relationship with China, and this is in the interests of both countries,” he said.
“Australia and China have a comprehensive strategic partnership and benefit from deep economic ties, with our trading relationship supporting supply chains, investment and livelihoods in both economies.”
The talks come after China recently granted additional export licenses to Australian beef producers despite imposing quotas in January.
A 55 per cent tariff will be imposed on all Australian beef imports to China after the quota is met.
The foreign minister will also discuss energy markets with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu during his meetings in Tokyo before his visit to China.
“Australia and Japan are special strategic partners and close friends with relationships based on trust, compatible values and mutual benefit,” Senator Wong said. he said.
“Together, we support a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient.”
The Asian tour will end with a trip to Seoul, where the foreign minister will meet his South Korean counterpart Cho Hyu.
South Korea is one of Australia’s major sources of refined fuels, including petrol, diesel and aviation fuel.
The trip follows Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s recent visits to Southeast Asian countries to bolster fuel supplies during the oil crisis caused by the Iran War.
Japan, China and South Korea are the top destinations for Australian gas exports and Canberra has been keen to strengthen the country’s status as a reliable supplier while negotiating for greater fuel certainty.
“Australia will continue to work with international partners to secure the supplies we need, including diesel, oil and fertiliser, and ensure Australia is prioritized as a reliable energy partner,” Senator Wong said.
