Dan Andrews defends ‘secretive’ mission to China

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews says his visit to China was aimed at fostering tourism, student and trade relationships and has defended the “secretive” visit.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has defended his closely-guarded trip to China, saying it was common for him to travel without media.

Mr Andrews’ office only announced the six-day trip the day prior to his departure for the visit, which was aimed at fostering tourism and trade ties and encouraging Chinese students to attend Victorian schools.

His office did not make announcements about the trip until being contacted by journalists and reporters were not invited on the trade mission.

Opposition Leader John Pesutto accused the Premier of keeping the “secretive” trip under wraps.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has come under fire over his trip to China. Picture: NCA NewsWire/David Crosling.

But Mr Andrews said it was common for him to travel overseas without media.

“I’ve travelled to China before without media,” Mr Andrews said on Sunday.

“In fact the last trip back in 2019 to China and Vietnam and there were no media with me.

“I travelled to India without media. It’s not always true that the media travels with us.”

Mr Andrews said the trip was aimed at forging trade ties with the state’s biggest economic partner following the Covid pandemic and “to send a message that we’re open, that we value the relationship.”

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. Picture: NCA NewsWire/David Crosling.

Mr Andrews on Sunday announced a working group between the Victorian Department of Jobs and Chinese counterparts to attract more students to Melbourne.

Chinese dignitaries will also visit Victoria following the World University Games in Sichuan in preparation for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat and Gippsland.

“Our relationship with China is deeper than just trade – it’s a partnership built on respect, trust and friendship, and one that benefits all Victorians in every sector.”

“After more than three years, we’ve met with Chinese leaders in sister provinces that are home to more than 170 million people, sending a message to China that Victoria is a fantastic place for Chinese people to visit and study.”