Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has defended not inviting journalists on his trip to China, saying there would not have been opportunities for press conferences with Chinese officials.
Daniel Andrews returned to Melbourne on Saturday after spending the week meeting with senior officials in Beijing and the Jiangsu and Sichuan provinces.
He was criticised for not taking a press pack, with many raising concerns over transparency and press freedom.
But the Premier on Sunday maintained he acted appropriately, noting journalists would not have been able to interview any of the officials he met.
‘Very warm reception’
“Let’s be really clear about this – this trip was not about me and with the greatest of respect, it was not about you,” Mr Andrews told reporters.
“It was about the success of Victoria and we stand by what was a full program and important program, one where we got a very warm reception.”
Mr Andrews said he had fruitful discussions about trade and international students, with a working group established between Victoria and the Chinese Ministry of Education.
The group will work towards attracting more Chinese students to Melbourne, with a focus on increasing student exchanges.
A standing working group has also been established with the Sichuan region to build on existing trade ties, while a task force has been set up with the Jiangsu Province.
“Our relationship has always been strong because both sides have worked hard to deliver that,” Mr Andrews said.
‘We value your students’
“But after three and a half years, it’s important to get back there and say – we are open, we value your students, we value your partnerships with us.”
Mr Andrews said he did not discuss his state’s infrastructure projects or matters of foreign policy.
Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto has accused the Premier of keeping secrets.
He said the Coalition would push for an inquiry into the trip.
“If the Premier isn’t forthcoming with the full truth, then we can’t know how this trip will benefit Victorians,” Mr Pesutto told reporters on Sunday.
WA Premier Mark McGowan on Sunday announced his own trip to China and confirmed he would take media.
The five-day trip will start on April 17 and feature high-level trade meetings.
-AAP
