China sends top official to Australia in further sign of thaw

News Snapshot:

The visit comes ahead of an expected trip to China by Anthony Albanese later this year. Mr Albanese last week played down reports a date for his visit had been agreed, saying he was waiting for an invitation. The South China Morning Post last week reported Mr Albanese had received an in-principle invitation to visit China, and quoted sources close to the Australian government that September or October was firming as the date because that would coincide with the 50th anniversary of the first visit of an Australian prime minister, Gough Whitlam, Trade Minister Don Farrell is expected to visit...