During the opening ceremony of the Australian-China Business Cooperation Committee (ACBC) Networking Day in Canberra on September 12, ACBC President and Chair Shen Wen delivered a keynote speech titled “Capability, Opportunities, and Aspirations.” In his address, he encouraged attendees to embrace courage and vision in order to continuously advance the Australia-China bilateral relationship.
Reflecting on the past decade since the signing of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement, Shen highlighted significant achievements and underscored the potential for future collaboration in several key areas. He pointed out that the agreement has strengthened economic ties, revealing substantial opportunities for both nations to work together.
Shen noted that the ACBC has been committed to promoting trade cooperation between Australia and China for 52 years. This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the ACBC’s Networking Day at Parliament House. While acknowledging the current challenges in global and bilateral relations, he expressed optimism about the multitude of cooperation opportunities across various sectors. He specifically mentioned that both countries have the potential to lead the global energy transition through initiatives like the “Green Channel Program,” which would further the adoption of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
In the realm of infrastructure development, Shen proposed collaborative projects aimed at enhancing urban and national connectivity. He also discussed sustainable agriculture initiatives, which could address growing global demands. In the health sector, he emphasized the importance of investing in “human potential,” viewed as a vital resource.
Shen further highlighted that international education and tourism act as not only significant economic drivers but also crucial bridges for cultural exchange, fostering deeper connections between the people of both nations. Additionally, he conveyed a positive outlook for Australia-China cooperation in legal and professional services, which could help establish new international standards and provide essential confidence for businesses navigating an increasingly complex landscape.