The Albanese government has faced an increasingly uncertain world since its re-election in May.

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US President Donald Trump has cast a long shadow over the Australia-US alliance, raising fresh questions about Canberra's long-term regional strategy.

Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's approach to foreign policy is reflecting a careful recalibration - one that seeks to balance security partnerships with the pursuit of economic opportunities, especially with Australia's largest trading partner, China.

Albanese has wrapped up a six-day visit to China which was characterised by a highly pragmatic approach to dealing with the problems and irritants in the bilateral relationship.

Albanese's visit to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu - cities emblematic of Australia's political, economic and cultural connections with China - was more than symbolic.

It was a high-profile diplomatic venture, with Albanese meeting both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.

But it was more than a leaders' summit. A large team of key business leaders in banking, manufacturing, mining and education were on the trip to meet their Chinese counterparts and seek more cooperation.

Economic engagement dominated the visit. As Albanese highlighted before his trip, "my priority is jobs".

Broader partnerships spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education and green energy, were canvassed. The two nations also explored closer cooperation on energy transition and climate change.

Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian has even floated a collaboration on artificial intelligence.

However, the suggestion has been met with caution in Canberra due to ongoing concerns around national security and data governance.

Beyond trade and investment, the visit also marked an effort to rebuild people-to-people........

© Canberra Times