Chinese Premier Highlights Investment in Critical Minerals and Clean Energy During Australian Visit

Chinese Premier Li Qiang concluded his Australian tour on Tuesday with a visit to Perth focused on China’s investment in critical minerals and clean energy. This visit marks the first by a Chinese premier to Australia in seven years, following Li’s visit to New Zealand.

During his time in Perth, Li inspected Fortescue’s clean energy research facility, expressing interest in the company’s initiatives to produce iron ore without carbon emissions and in potentially developing “green iron.” Fortescue Chairman Andrew Forrest emphasized the innovation in hydrogen, ammonia, and battery power for trains, ships, and mining equipment being researched at the facility.

Li also visited Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia’s processing plant, highlighting China’s significant investments in critical minerals. This plant produces battery-grade lithium hydroxide, crucial for electric vehicles.

The visit comes amid U.S. and Australian concerns over China’s dominance in critical minerals supply chains. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring foreign investments align with national interests, citing recent measures to curb Chinese stakes in rare earth mining companies.

On a diplomatic front, a minor incident occurred in Canberra involving Chinese officials and Australian journalist Cheng Lei, leading the Australian government to voice its concerns to the Chinese Embassy.

Premier Li will next visit Malaysia, continuing his tour of the region.