Today I met China’s Premier Li Qiang in the margins of the East Asia Summit.

We had a frank and constructive discussion, welcomed ongoing progress in stabilising our bilateral relationship, and the renewed engagement between our two countries. We both agreed on the value of expanding cooperation in areas of shared interest.

I raised a range of bilateral and other issues of importance to Australia, including remaining trade impediments, consular cases and human rights. We discussed and shared perspectives on regional and international security issues.

I told Premier Li that we would continue to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, and engage in our national interest.

I look forward to visiting China later this year to mark the 50th anniversary of Prime Minister Whitlam’s historic visit.