Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Trade) Share this | Hansard source

I have written to my counterpart on a number of occasions about a number of the issues that I just outlined. We have also made representations in addition to those written ones that I have made, as is publicly known, seeking ministerial dialogue, and it is a disappointment to Australia that, despite our willingness to sit down and engage as a mature partner in ministerial dialogue, China has been unwilling to reciprocate. Nonetheless, we retain a position and a posture of keeping the door open in that regard, and we will continue to ensure that that invitation is extended and our willingness to do so is there. In addition to those representations that I have made directly, as a government we have continued at ambassadorial level and at other diplomatic levels to engage solidly, steadfastly, to try to resolve the various technical issues and other issues, as well as to support Australian industry wherever we possibly can.