Penny Wong will travel to China and some of Australia’s strongest regional allies as the world market holds its breath while the Iran ceasefire continues to hold.
The trip comes as the Albanese government seeks to reinforce relationships in the region, particularly around energy security.
Anthony Albanese has in recent weeks traveled to Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei, where he sought to back in existing fuel arrangements.
This week, the Foreign Affairs Minister will travel to Japan, China, and the Republic of Korea.
In a statement, Senator Wong said direct, in-person engagement in the region would help ensure the allies were “coordinating effectively as these disruptions continue to unfold”.
“The Middle East conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt global energy markets, with Asian refineries and the Indo-Pacific region disproportionately affected,” she said.
“Australia will continue working with international partners to help secure the supplies we need – including diesel, petrol and fertiliser – and ensure Australia is prioritised as a reliable energy partner.”
The trip will include the eight Australia-China Foreign and Strategic Dialogue with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Senator Wong said the government remained committed to a stable and constructive relationship with China, which was in the interests of both countries.
“Australia and China have a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and benefit from deep economic ties, with our trade relationship underpinning supply chains, investment and livelihoods in both economies,” she said.
“Dialogue between our countries enables us to progress the full range of our interests and manage our differences.”
Despite a thaw in relations with Australia, China has sought to introduce more protective measures in the lead up to the Iran war, driven in-part by Donald Trump’s renewed trade war and tariff regime.
Diplomats from China have also been critical of the government’s support for the United States’ war on Iran.
In Japan, Senator Wong will meet with her counterpart, H.E. Motegi Toshimitsu, other cabinet ministers, and industry leaders to discuss energy and fuel security, the Middle East conflict, and “other issues of shared interest”.
Senator Wong described Japan as a “close friend”, and said both nation supported a free and open “Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient”.
To the west, Senator Wong will meet with her counterpart in Korea, which is one of Australia’s most important sources of refined fuels, including diesel, gasoline, and aviation fuel.
