On September 6, 2024, President Yang Wanming of the CPAFFC met with Vaughn Barber, Chair of the China-Australia Chamber of Commerce (AustCham China), and his delegation. The two sides exchanged views on promoting exchanges and cooperation between China and Australia at the people-to-people, local, and business levels.

President Yang emphasized that China-Australia relations hold significant importance for the peace, prosperity, and stability of both countries and the wider world. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, China-Australia relations have recently shown a positive trend of continuous improvement and development. President Yang noted that both sides should continue to engage in dialogue to enhance mutual understanding, reduce differences, and broaden consensus. The recent successful conclusion of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China has systematically outlined measures for further deepening reforms, which will create new opportunities for cooperation with countries worldwide, including Australia. President Yang expressed CPAFFC’s willingness to work closely with AustCham China to promote exchanges and cooperation in the fields of trade, sister-city relations, youth, culture, and other areas, thereby contributing to the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Australia from both the people-to-people and local levels.

Vaughn Barber stated that during Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Australia in June, both sides reaffirmed their support for the comprehensive strategic partnership, which has greatly encouraged the Australian business community. He underscored that enhancing mutual understanding between the peoples of Australia and China is a vital foundation for the sustainable development of bilateral economic relations. AustCham China is honored to establish closer ties with the CPAFFC and is eager to engage in people-to-people exchange and cooperation projects, contributing to the enhancement of mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Australia.

Vice President Shen Xin was also present at the meeting.