Australia and China have agreed to deepen cooperation on regional energy security, a move both governments say is essential as global oil prices surge amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese Premier Li Qiang discussed the issue during a phone call on Tuesday, with Canberra describing the conversation as focused on the “importance of energy security in light of the current global challenges.” According to the Australian summary, both leaders committed to increasing government‑to‑government communication to ensure the two nations work together to stabilise the region’s energy landscape.
The call also underscored a shared desire to maintain a “mature, stable and constructive relationship,” with both sides emphasising the value of high‑level engagement.
Beijing’s readout highlighted the long‑term potential of the bilateral economic partnership. Premier Li said both countries should accelerate efforts to review and upgrade their free trade agreement, adding that China is willing to import more high‑quality Australian products. He also pointed to “great potential” for expanded cooperation in clean energy.
Australia imports around 90 percent of its refined petroleum products, most of it from Asia. China remains a major supplier of aviation fuel to Australia and is one of the largest buyers of Australian liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Albanese said he will travel to Singapore on Thursday to discuss trade in essential supplies such as diesel and LNG. Singapore is Australia’s single largest supplier of refined petroleum products, making the visit a key step in shoring up supply chains during a period of global volatility.
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