Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made pointed remark to China in speech at B20 in Bali

On Monday morning local time, the Australian leader took to the stage to call for greater co-operation between countries in order to weather the global storm of economic instability.

“Collaboration means strengthening our trade links – not just in the exchange of raw materials or finished products – but in the sharing of research and technology and education and expertise,” Mr Albanese said.

“Governments can help by breaking down tariff walls and building trade bridges.”

The pointed comment comes as the Prime Minister is set to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss the crippling trade sanctions imposed on Australian goods and services.

China announced the multi-billion dollar economic sanctions on Australian industries in 2020 after the government called for an inquiry into the origins of Covid-19.

Australian industries like meat, timber, coal, and wine were devastated by the unexpected and sudden decision.

Before he embarked on a nine-day tour of Asia where he is expected to meet with the Chinese President, Mr Albanese said the trade restrictions would have to be lifted to allow the two countries to mend their relationship.

In his keynote address, the Australian leader emphasised the importance of collaboration for overcoming global issues.

“Right now, we face a collective economic challenge new to the G20, indeed new to our generation,” he said.

“We can achieve far more together than we ever will alone … Indeed, recovering stronger depends on recovering together.”

One global challenge that loomed large in the Prime Minister’s speech was climate change.

He urged governments and businesses alike to take responsibility for their roles in tackling the threat.

“Investing and developing clean energy will enhance our individual energy security and it will strengthen our collective action on climate change,” Mr Albanese said.

“Because just as none of us are immune from the global challenge of climate change, all of us have a part to play in the solution.”

Pointing to his government’s pledge to become a “renewable energy superpower”, the Prime Minister said Australia was also committed to assisting other nations reduce their emissions and build their economies.

He commended Indonesian President Joko Widodo for his vision in accelerating the transition to renewable energy in the G20 Bali Energy Transitions Roadmap.