(File) China's new Ambassador to Australia Liu Jinsong Photo: official website of Chinese Embassy in Australia

China's new Ambassador to Australia Liu Jinsong arrived in Australia on Monday afternoon to assume his new post, according to a release from the Chinese Embassy in Australia.

In written remarks upon arrival, Liu said Australia is an important country and that he feels deeply honored and responsible to serve as the 16th Chinese ambassador to Australia, likening his new role to taking over the baton in a relay race.

Chinese Consul General in Sydney Wang Yu, representatives of the Chinese community and Chinese enterprises in Australia, as well as Australian officials, welcomed Liu upon his arrival, according to the release.

Thirty years ago, as a young Chinese diplomat in charge of Asia-Pacific cooperation affairs, I first set foot on Australian soil, yet I did not feel like a stranger… I could see here the same vast and expansive landscapes as those of my hometown of Xinjiang, Liu said.

China and Australia have no historical grievances or fundamental conflicts of interest. Their economies are highly complementary and their cultures could really enrich each other. The prospects for cooperation are promising, while properly managing differences and expectations is also crucial, Liu noted in the written remarks. 

"I will perform my duties with dedication, listen with an open mind, safeguard China's national interests, implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries," Liu said, adding that he will serve as a guardian and promoter of the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership.

Liu succeeds Xiao Qian as China's ambassador to Australia. Liu previously served as Director General of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The ministry's website currently lists Shen Minjuan as Director General of the department.

Global Times