The first visit to Australia by a Chinese premier in seven years was marked by anti-China groups protesting China’s disregard for human rights
Li Qiang’s visit signals a warming relationship with Australia but Monday’s ceremonies were possibly overshadowed by Chinese officials’ reactions to journalist Cheng Lei.Li Qiang’s visit signals a warming relationship with Australia but Monday’s ceremonies were possibly overshadowed by Chinese officials’ reactions to journalist Cheng Lei.
The formal events in the nation’s capital began with a ceremonial welcome on the Parliament House forecourt, including a 19-gun salute and an opportunity for Li to inspect the guard of honour.As the Chinese and Australian national anthems were played, Li and Albanese stood on a podium facing out from Parliament House from where the two leaders would have had a good view of two distinct groups gathered about 200m away on the lawns.
“Free Tibet” chants from the anti-visit demonstrators could be heard during the ceremonial welcome; and protesters also held a large sign declaring: “Human rights, not for sale. Free Uyghurs! Free Tibet! Free Hong Kong! Free China!” The journalist was finally released from detention late last year after repeated calls from the Australian government to allow her to return home.
Albanese and Li proceeded to give their statements to the media, in a format that did not allow journalists to ask questions.
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