Canberra should now match its sweet talk with deeds

In a welcome change of tone, high-ranking Australian politicians have begun to talk favorably about Australia's ties with China of late, and displayed a strong desire to maintain a good relationship with China. However, their sweet talking will need to be matched by suitable deeds to ensure the healthy development of bilateral cooperation.

In a speech at the University of New South Wales on Tuesday, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull talked at length about his understanding of China and its continuing reform and opening-up and stressed the importance of Australia's ties with China, saying that his country looks forward to working with China on Belt and Road Initiative projects.

"We're committed to working with China's leaders to advance our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a great framework within which to advance our mutual and complementary interests," he said. He also stressed that Australia will continue to welcome students, tourists, researchers and investors from China.