Trump and Putin to meet to discuss end of Ukraine war; Australia promises US a defence revamp ahead of Albanese-Trump meeting
Chalmers is in the United States this week to attend the annual meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund and met with key US officials during his visit, where critical minerals were high on the agenda.
Chalmers this morning described critical minerals as “an absolutely golden opportunity for Australia” and said the government should ensure they “make the most of it”.
The government hopes the country’s critical mineral supply can be used to persuade the US to reduce its tariffs on Australia.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers.Credit: Alex Ellinghausen
“We have been clear for some time that we believe these tariffs on Australia are unnecessary and unwarranted,” Chalmers told the press in Washington.
Defense Industry Minister Pat Conroy said there is “no doubt” that critical minerals will be on the agenda when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Donald Trump meet face to face in Washington next week.
“We know that American companies desperately need critical minerals, and Australia is well positioned to meet that need. This will be an important part of my discussions with Kevin Hassett tonight. It will no doubt be part of Prime Minister Albanese’s meetings with President Trump next week,” Conroy said.
