Australian PM Albanese Locks in First Face-to-Face Meeting with US President Trump at G7 Summit in Canada

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to meet with US President Donald Trump for the first time in person during the G7 summit in Canada, aiming to discuss an exemption from US tariffs and emphasize the importance of the AUKUS security pact. The meeting comes amid significant challenges, including widespread protests against Trump in the US, ongoing Middle East conflicts, and tensions over Australia's defense spending and trade issues such as tariffs on steel and aluminum. Albanese expects a constructive engagement, intending to highlight Australia's national interests, including critical mineral supplies and increased US beef imports, while noting the negative impact of US tariffs on American consumers. Both leaders have held several phone conversations prior to this meeting, with Albanese focusing on strengthening trade relations and security cooperation. The talks occur as the US reviews the AUKUS pact and amid Australia's criticism from the US over sanctions on Israeli officials. Despite these complexities, Albanese maintains a diplomatic tone and stresses the mutual benefits of the US treating Australia appropriately in trade and security matters.