Today we depart for Beijing, China, to hold talks with members of the Chinese Government on economic issues.
While in Beijing, we will hold meetings with senior Chinese officials, including the Chairman of the National Development Reform Commission, Mr Zhang Ping, and the Minister for Commerce, Mr Chen Deming.
The purpose of the trip is to discuss our growing investment and trade relationship, including efforts to advance the Free Trade Agreement negotiations, our close cooperation on the Doha Development Round, and other aspects of our economic relationship.
Ministers will also discuss the international response to the global financial crisis, and the role of G20.
In 2007, China was Australia's largest trade partner, with two way trade in goods and services totalling $58 billion.
Ministers depart today and return on 8 December 2008.
This trip underscores the importance of Australia's growing economic relationship with China, and the Government's willingness to engage internationally during this global financial crisis.