Anthony Albanese has hit back against the Coalition’s criticism of his “indulgent” trip to China, accusing them of “constant negativity” and a failure to acknowledge the importance of Australia’s “most important trading partner”.

Anthony Albanese and Chinese President Xi Jinping exchanged warm words and promised to strength the relationship after talks to Beijing.

Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who was imprisoned in China for more than three years, has warned Prime Minister Anthony Albanese not to be "naive" on China - adding he should not forget the “fundamental differences” between the two nations.

The high-profile meeting will likely see Australia's prime minister raise several contentious issues, while also celebrating economic ties.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is trying to deepen ties with China, his country’s biggest trading partner, while being under pressure from the United States.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has rejected a Chinese push for his government to weaken rules blocking the country’s investors from key economic sectors.

The prime minister's visit to Beijing featured an unusual one-on-one meal with China's most powerful man. It's significant in more ways than one.