Time of establishment of friendly relations: September 1979

Overview:

New South Wales, situated in the southeast of Australia, is the nation's most populous state and boasts the highest levels of industrialization and urbanization. Spanning 810,000 square kilometers, it accounts for approximately 10 percent of Australia's total land area and is home to around 8.2 million people. Known as the "First State of Australia", New South Wales leads the country in terms of economic diversity and size, with a robust and sustained average growth rate of about 2.5 percent in its total economic value.

In the fiscal year of 2020–2021, the state's GDP reached 633.6 billion Australian dollars (approximately 2,902.7 billion yuan), representing almost one-third of Australia's economic output. Rich in mineral resources, New South Wales contains 59 percent of the nation's coal reserves. It is also a hub for numerous worldclass research and innovation centers, showcasing its strengths across various sectors, including agriculture, livestock, industry, science and technology, culture, education, advanced manufacturing, and finance.

Relations with Guangdong:

On September 1, 1979, Guangdong and New South Wales established friendly relations. This marked the first friendly province–state relationship between China and Australia. 

In 1983, the two initiated a joint economic conference mechanism, which has since become a biennial event held alternately in both locations. The mechanism's meetings are attended by the leaders of both regions, with participation from relevant units and enterprises. It has since evolved into a flagship event that fosters exchanges and cooperation between Guangdong and New South Wales.

Other friendship provinces and cities:

Guangdong–Queensland;

Guangzhou–Sydney; Shenzhen–Brisbane; Zhuhai–Gold Coast; Foshan–Townsville; Foshan’s Shunde district–Kogarah; Shaoguan–Burwood; Nanxiong city of Shaoguan–Georges River Council; Taishan city of Jiangmen–Ararat; Zhanjiang–Cairns; Zhanjiang–Geraldton; Maoming–Willoughby.