Canberra is close to an agreement with Beijing that would allow Australian suppliers to ship five trial canola cargoes to China, sources familiar with the matter said, a move towards ending a years-long freeze in the trade.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has kicked off a visit to China meant to shore up relations between the two countries

China and Australia vowed on Tuesday to enhance bilateral ties, and work together to uphold multilateralism and free trade and jointly cope with global challenges amid the transformation and turbulence in the international landscape.

Major miner BHP has said it is too costly for Australia to build a "green iron" industry after the country and China agreed this week to jointly work to decarbonise the steel supply chain, responsible for nearly a tenth of global emissions.

Responding to a question regarding Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's visit to China and related business activities, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Wednesday that China consistently views economic and trade cooperation as the cornerstone of China-Australia relations and is willing to work with Australia to provide a fair,

Premier Li Qiang called on Tuesday for China and Australia to further strengthen higher-quality cooperation and create a stronger synergy for development to effectively address uncertainties.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been serenaded with warmth, reverence and classic Australian rock music in Beijing, but critics have warned the tune is off key.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier of the People’s Republic of China Li Qiang (front row, centre) with executives from Australian and Chinese businesses ahead of the 8th CEO Roundtable held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing,

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday his government's screening of foreign investment was not country-specific, after Chinese Premier Li Qiang raised "problems" faced by Chinese companies seeking access to Australia.