PM set to meet US President in Washington

The White House heralded a warm and positive meeting between the two that would focus on core interests such as national and economic security.

“President Trump and Prime Minister Albanese have a great relationship,” White House press secretary Anna Kelly said Monday.

North America correspondent Michael Koziol Trump is expected to use the meeting to discuss regional efforts to combat China’s economic pressure and military aggression, and administration officials last week challenged allies including Australia to help combat Beijing’s pressure on the global critical mineral supply chain.

A US official with knowledge of AUKUS and defense relations, who was not authorized to speak publicly, said they do not expect any significant changes to the defense agreement signed in 2021.

“We want our friends like Australia to have the resources they need to protect themselves, especially given what’s going on in China. We need our allies,” the official said in this statement.

“This means Australia must be a priority. There is no indication so far that we are considering withdrawing from the EU.” [AUKUS]. These aren’t just conversations happening.

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