Australian Prime Minister Albanese Meets King Charles III at Balmoral Castle

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met King Charles III at Balmoral Castle in Scotland during his 2025 visit to the UK, presenting the monarch with a framed photo from the royal couple's 2024 visit to Australia, crafted from genuine Australian timber. This marked Albanese's fourth audience with King Charles, who had previously visited Australia and met Albanese on multiple occasions. Prior to the royal meeting, Albanese engaged in talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, including discussions at Downing Street and attendance at the British Labour Party's annual conference, which drew criticism from the Australian opposition for the use of taxpayer funds. Albanese's UK visit also includes discussions on the Middle East peace process, with meetings involving former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, who is proposed to lead a temporary administration of Gaza, raising questions about Palestinian reception. The meetings underscore the close ties between Australia and the UK, set against the backdrop of global political challenges such as right-wing populism and migration issues. Albanese reaffirmed his respect for the monarchy and ruled out pursuing an Australian republic referendum during his current term.