Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is one step closer to securing an in-person meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump following their fourth phone call. The discussions come nearly a year into Trump’s second term, during which Albanese has faced challenges in arranging face-to-face talks with the Republican leader. A planned meeting in Canada in June was cancelled amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Analysts suggest that the two leaders may meet during the United Nations “leaders’ week,” which starts on September 22. According to Jared Mondschein, Director of Research at the United States Studies Centre, the personal connection between leaders is crucial. “The prime minister does want to focus on this,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of personal rapport in international relations.
The latest call between Albanese and Trump included discussions on trade and critical minerals. This conversation is particularly relevant as China has begun restricting exports of essential metals such as lithium and cobalt. China currently dominates the global production of these critical minerals, which are integral to electric cars, solar panels, and defence technologies. Australia, possessing significant underground reserves, aims to reduce China’s influence in this sector.
“There are really no allies closer than the United States and Australia, and there are also no allies that have the same access to critical minerals,” Mondschein noted. This growing partnership is vital for both nations, especially in the context of current geopolitical dynamics.
While the recent call did not mention the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, the Australian government maintains that the military agreement with the U.S. and the UK will proceed as planned. Richard Marles, Australia’s Defence Minister, reassured reporters in Tokyo that the deal is “on schedule” and expressed confidence in its progress, despite the White House’s ongoing review.
In a post on X, Kevin Rudd, Australia’s Ambassador to the United States, emphasized the strengthening relationship between Australia and the U.S. He stated that the partnership is evolving positively, reinforcing strategic ties.
Political opposition in Australia has criticized Albanese for not yet securing a meeting with Trump. Kevin Hogan, the opposition’s trade spokesman, remarked, “It’s been more than 300 days since the U.S. election, yet the prime minister has not secured a face-to-face meeting with the president, who has already met with over 30 other world leaders.” This sentiment reflects the pressure on Albanese to enhance diplomatic engagement with the United States, particularly in light of significant global challenges.
As the world watches, the upcoming UN meeting presents a crucial opportunity for Albanese to solidify ties with the U.S. administration, addressing both trade concerns and strategic partnerships in critical minerals. The outcome of these discussions could have lasting implications for Australia’s global standing and economic interests.
