Strengthen Bilateral Relations, China-Australia Explor AI Development Cooperation

JAKARTA - Chinese President Xi Jinping said his country is ready to cooperate with Australia to deepen bilateral relations between the two countries.

This was conveyed by Jinping in a meeting with Australian Prime Minister (PM) Anthony Albanese in Beijing on Tuesday, July 15 local time.

During the meeting, China also expressed interest in expanding a decade-old free trade agreement and collaborating in the field of artificial intelligence or AI with Australia.

"China is willing to further 'promot the development of [AI]' in China-Australia relations," Xi said in remarks at the start of the meeting.

Australian PM welcomes the exploration of cooperation with China in this free trade agreement. He added that Australia's national interest would guide the government's approach to the relationship.

"Dialogue needs to be the core of our relationship," said Australian PM.

"I welcome the opportunity to put forward Australia's views and interests as well as our thoughts on how we can maintain peace, security, stability and prosperity in our region," he continued.

The meeting of the two country leaders took place amid China's efforts to take advantage of the 'loss' trade rate imposed by US President Donald Trump by presenting himself as a stable and reliable partner.