Monday's speech will probably be a vehicle for the Government to express regret over the tensions that have emerged, not just its belief in the long-term strength of the relationship. And if it goes down as intended, there is speculation it will be followed by a visit to Australia by a high-level Chinese official, First Vice-Premier Li Keqiang.
Vice-Premier Li is a member of China's peak Politburo Standing Committee and is Premier Wen Jiabao's top lieutenant, with responsibility for development and macroeconomic management. He could be in Australia as early as next weekend.
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