PM Albanese in US: Strengthens Ties, Pushes for AUKUS Legislation and Addresses Climate Change

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has embarked on an official visit to the United States, responding to an invitation from American President Joe Biden. In light of current global upheaval, the timing is decidedly poignant.

Late on Sunday night, Mr. Albanese landed on American soil in Washington DC, where he was met by Kevin Rudd, Australia’s Ambassador to the U.S, and former Prime Minister himself.


This occasion marks the ninth face-to-face engagement between Albanese and Biden since the governmental turnover in Australia last year, a series of meetings punctuated by Biden’s abrupt withdrawl from a ‘Quad’ meeting in Sydney previously this year.

Albanese emphasised the significance of the bilateral relations between the two nations as he reported to journalists upon arrival, articulating, “In the backdrop of a turbulent world, this relationship delivers security and stability. United as major democratic nations, our shared values drive our efforts to advocate for these values all through the Indo-Pacific and globally.”

Earlier in the week, Mr. Rudd hoped Albanese’s presence in the States will support “actual headway” in pushing the American Congress towards passing the AUKUS legislation and propelling conversations regarding China.

Asserting the relationship between the U.S and Australia as “paramount,” Albanese is scheduled to engage with American legislators over the remainder of his four-day visit. The agenda includes strategising new agreements on crucial minerals and exploring the escalating discord in the Middle East.

The defense association is expected to invite some deliberation, ensuring the AUKUS alliance is executed appropriately. An Oval Office meeting with President Biden, as well as a state dinner wherein Albanese will be the guest of honour, is on the cards for the latter part of the week.

However, Albanese signaled that the key component of the visit would be the agreements centering around climate change and clean energy, along with critical minerals, which he had previously signed with President Biden in Hiroshima.

Equating the robust relations between Australia and the U.S to a sense of stability and security, Albanese added, “The magnitude and strength of our relationship creates a comfort based on our shared values.”

Prior to his departure from Australia, Albanese confirmed an impending visit to China on the 4th of November, marking a historical event following months of fruitful negotiation in the face of trade tensions between China and Australia. Albanese perceives this trip as a significant stride towards ensuring a more stable, productive relationship with China.

Expecting a productive dialogue with President Xi and Premier Li, Albanese conveyed his anticipation stating, “In Australia’s national interest, I am looking forward to further interaction with the Chinese leadership.”