Anthony Albanese, the Prime Minister of Australia, engaged in a phone conversation with Donald Trump, the President of the United States, focusing on trade and security issues. This call, which occurred just before midnight on March 15, 2024, marks the fourth discussion between the two leaders since Trump took office. Albanese described the exchange as “warm and constructive,” highlighting a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
In a post on social media platform X, Albanese noted that the discussions encompassed the trade and economic relationship between the two nations, with particular emphasis on opportunities for growth in critical minerals. He stated, “We also discussed shared US-Australia security interests.” A readout of the call confirmed that both leaders emphasized the significance of their collaboration and the shared challenges they face on the global stage.
Focus on Economic Cooperation and Security Interests
Despite the positive tone of the call, no date has been set for a face-to-face meeting, a long-sought goal for Australia since Trump’s election in November 2020. The two leaders were initially expected to meet during the G7 summit in Canada in June, but that meeting was cancelled after Trump returned to the US early to address pressing issues in the Middle East.
The phone call comes as the United Nations General Assembly meeting approaches, where Trump is expected to participate. Australia plans to collaborate with the UK, France, Canada, and other nations in advocating for the recognition of a Palestinian state during this significant gathering.
Australian Ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, expressed his approval of the recent call, stating, “Lots going on in the US-Australia relationship. And going from strength to strength.” This sentiment reflects ongoing efforts by Australia to encourage the US to reconsider the tariffs imposed on Australian exports. Trump has implemented a baseline tariff of 10 percent on all Australian goods entering the US, along with a substantial 50 percent tariff on steel and aluminum products.
Military Spending and AUKUS Alliance Review
In addition to trade discussions, the call coincided with a review of the AUKUS trilateral security alliance, which involves significant Australian investments, estimated at $386 billion for nuclear-powered attack submarines. The US has been pressing Australia to increase its defense spending to 3.5 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP), while the current expenditure stands at 2.02 percent, with a goal of reaching 2.33 percent by 2033/34.
Employment Minister Amanda Rishworth remarked on the call’s significance, noting that Australia has the lowest trade tariffs of any country in the world concerning the US. “This builds on what is already a warm relationship between the two of them,” Rishworth commented on the Seven Sunrise program. She added that a face-to-face meeting will occur when it is convenient for both leaders, reiterating the established rapport between them, evidenced by the four conversations to date.
Despite the positive developments, Liberal Senator Jane Hume expressed concern about the lack of an in-person meeting, stating, “It’s been 300 days now since President Trump was elected, and still no meeting between our leaders, and that’s a concern.” Hume emphasized the need for Albanese to take decisive action to represent Australia’s interests and secure the AUKUS agreements.
As the political landscape evolves, the dialogue between Albanese and Trump underscores the importance of maintaining strong ties between Australia and the US, particularly in areas of trade, security, and international cooperation. The next steps will be crucial in defining the future of this bilateral relationship.
