Penny Wong heads to China as government looks to North Asia to secure Australia’s fuel supply

Foreign Minister Penny Wong will head to North Asia this week as the Albanese government broadens its diplomatic efforts to secure oil supplies, including with China which has recently curtailed exports of jet fuel.

Senator Wong has announced she will head to Japan, China and South Korea over coming days for face-to-face discussions with her counterparts to “strengthen Australia’s relationships and our shared energy security”.

“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 in a statement.

“Direct, in-person engagement with counterparts across our region will help ensure we are coordinating effectively as these disruptions continue to unfold.”

During her visit to Beijing, the Foreign Minister will hold the eighth Australia-China Foreign and Strategic Dialogue with her counterpart Wang Yi, as strategic tensions over Taiwan continue to play out.

Last week the Albanese government added its voice to international concerns over an overflight ban pushed by Beijing on Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, while back in March China banned all jet fuel exports other than to Hong Kong to preserve its own supplies.

“The Australian Government remains committed to a stable and constructive relationship with China, which is in the interests of both our countries,” Senator Wong said ahead of her departure.

“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.”

“Dialogue between our countries enables us to progress the full range of our interests and manage our differences,” she added.

In Tokyo she will meet her counterpart H.E. Motegi Toshimitsu along with other Japanese cabinet ministers and industry leaders to discuss energy and fuel security, the Middle East conflict and other shared concerns.

“Australia and Japan are Special Strategic Partners and close friends, with a relationship built on trust, aligned values, and mutual interests. Together, we support a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient,” Senator Wong said.

During her final stopover in Seoul, Senator Wong will meet Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, days after Australia secured additional diesel shipments from South Korea using new government financing provisions.

“Australia and the Republic of Korea are Comprehensive Strategic Partners with a strong bilateral relationship underpinned by shared strategic interests, complementary economies and generational ties between our people,” Senator Wong said.

“The Republic of Korea is one of Australia’s most important sources of refined fuels, including diesel, automotive gasoline and aviation fuel.

“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.”