In September I will lead a trade mission to China in my first visit there as Premier.
We'll meet with business, government, educators, and communities - and we'll make the friendship between Victorian and Chinese people even stronger.
I'm proud of that friendship. This visit is a chance to turn a new page - and for Victoria to lead the way.
I'll be developing Victoria's new China strategy - and taking it with me overseas.
Our new China strategy is about a new era of jobs, growth and stability for Victorian workers, and a new era of respect for Victorians from the Chinese community.
It's a strategy that will be built around Victoria's five key strengths:
Food and fibre
Advanced manufacturing and clean energy
Medtech and pharma
Tourism and creative industries
And - of course - international education.
These sectors are where we stand apart. That's our pipeline for growth and our offering to the Asian marketplace. They're built on the biggest strengths of all: our people and our diversity.
Over the last few years, we've heard unnecessary and divisive rhetoric from conservative politicians that have been hurtful to Chinese Australian families.
In an era of tariffs and global economic uncertainty, I want to seize an opportunity for Victoria to create good, stable jobs and drive strong economic growth.
And in an era of divisive, Trump-style rhetoric here and abroad, I want to make the case that Victorians from overseas are a proud part of our story to the world.
As Premier, I don't shut the door to economic opportunities. I welcome them with open arms.
