Tomorrow, I will meet with the Vice-Premier of China, Li Keqiang, in Beijing to further strengthen our already strong economic relationship so that it benefits all Australians.
I look forward to discussions with the Vice-Premier on the importance of our bilateral relationship and recent global economic developments.
I will meet with the Chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, Zhang Ping, to continue to build economic links between our countries and to increase cooperation in key international organisations.
My meeting with the Chinese Minister of Finance, Xie Xuren, will focus on the significant progress made at the G20 Finance Ministers' Meeting and important preparations for the G20 Leaders' Summit in Korea next week.
I will discuss with the Governor of the People's Bank of China, Zhou Xiaochuan, the strong performance of the Chinese economy and how this contrasts with the performance of a number of other G20 countries, in particular the US and in Europe, where unemployment remains around 10 per cent.
From all of these meetings I will gain valuable insight into China's current policy priorities and economic outlook.
I will also meet with representatives from the local mining, energy and investment sectors, which offers an opportunity to emphasise that we welcome Chinese investment in our economy, subject to a national interest test, and to discuss opportunities for Australian business in China.
China is Australia's largest trading partner, our largest export market, our largest source of imports, an important source of foreign investment funds, and a key destination for Australian business investment. My meetings tomorrow are another chance to nourish a relationship which is so important to the people of both nations.
Following my meetings in Beijing, I will attend this weekend's APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting in Kyoto, Japan, before returning to Australia on Sunday.