Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump face-to-face for the first time during the G7 summit in Canada this Wednesday.
Speaking from Amazon’s Seattle headquarters, the Prime Minister said he looks forward to a “constructive engagement” with Trump, following several phone calls.
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“I look forward to building on the very constructive phone conversations that we’ve had on the three occasions that we’ve had the opportunity to talk,” Albanese said.
“I obviously will raise tariffs. We’ll raise, as well, of AUKUS, and we will have a discussion, as two friends should.”
The G7 summit brings together leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, the US, and the European Union.
Albanese’s engagement with Trump and other leaders will play a vital role in shaping Australia’s strategic and economic future amid global shifts.
The US has imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Australian steel and aluminium imports amid broader trade disputes.
Additionally, Washington has expressed frustration over Australia’s defence budget, urging it to meet the 3.5 per cent of GDP target.
The meeting also comes as tensions rise in the Middle East following recent attacks between Iran and Israel.
While Trump praised Israeli strikes and signalled willingness to negotiate with Iran, the Albanese government has expressed concern over escalating violence.
“We are very aware of the situation and concerned about any escalation,” Albanese said.
“The threat of a nuclear Iran remains a significant issue for regional peace and security.”
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