Kevin Rudd resigns as US ambassador
“During both Democratic and Republican administrations, Kevin has worked collaboratively with our closest security ally and key strategic partner to deliver tangible results,” Albanese said at a press conference in Canberra to announce the end of Rudd’s term.
“As Prime Minister I have visited the United States at least seven times. This is due to the fruitful work that Kevin Rudd has done generally, including in particular to advance the economic relationship between our two nations, but also, of course, to ensure that AUKUS can move forward to benefit Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom.”
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“As someone who has close relationships not only with the United States but with our partners around the world, I can tell you that Kevin’s expertise on China is sought by leaders internationally, and I now have no doubt that he will continue in this new role to contribute to a better understanding of our region, the Indo-Pacific, at this critical time,” Wong said.
Albanese insisted the decision was entirely Rudd’s and that he was not being pressured into taking early action.
“Kevin Rudd has a work ethic unlike anyone I’ve ever met; he worked tirelessly,” he said.
“He is stepping into a role that he believes is very important. Kevin Rudd will tell you privately what he has said publicly, and what drove him to write his book is that he thinks the relationship between the United States and China, the two great superpowers, is the most important relationship that will define the middle of this century. He sees it as a continuation of his public service, not just to Australia but to the global community.”
More to come.
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