Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has emerged from a meeting with US President Donald Trump with key outcomes, including a deal on critical minerals and a reaffirmation of the AUKUS submarine agreement. The meeting, which lasted less than 40 minutes, took place in the White House Cabinet Room.
Albanese began by praising Trump's Middle East peace deal and framed Australia's critical minerals strategy as similar to Trump's 'America First' policy. The two leaders agreed to jointly fund critical minerals projects, with at least six located in Australia, aiming to counter China's dominance in the sector.
Trump gave his presidential approval to the AUKUS agreement, under which Australia will acquire eight nuclear-powered submarines from the US and UK. He stated the project was 'full steam ahead' and would act as a deterrent against China. Trump avoided contentious issues such as defence spending and tariffs, though he confirmed Australia would remain subject to tariffs, noting it pays the lowest rates.
The meeting included awkward moments, including Trump's response to a question about Australia's ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd. Trump, unaware Rudd was present, said he did not know him and added, 'I don't like you either, and I probably never will.' Rudd later apologised, and the Australian government reported Trump said 'all is forgiven'.
