Australian PM to visit China

BEIJING - Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will pay an official visit to China from July 12 to 18 at the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman announced on Tuesday.

Spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing that the visit comes as the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership enters its second decade.

"Under the guidance of the leaders of the two countries and with the joint efforts of both sides, China-Australia relations have continued to improve," Mao said.

"China is willing to work with Australia to take this visit as an opportunity to strengthen communication, enhance mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and advance the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries," Mao added.