Anthony Albanese has described his first meeting with Donald Trump as a success, with the US president offering unexpected praise for the Australian prime minister and endorsing the Aukus nuclear submarine deal. The meeting, which took place at the White House, saw Trump call Albanese a 'great prime minister' and Australia an 'amazing ally'. Albanese joked he would use the commendations in his next election campaign ads.
The visit came after the prime minister arrived directly from a tropical holiday, and amid criticism from the opposition that the government had mishandled the US relationship. However, Trump dismissed concerns over Australia's defence spending and climate policy, and praised the critical minerals agreement signed by the two leaders. The deal is expected to see billions of US investment in Australia.
Despite the warm reception, questions remain over the Aukus deal, with US Navy Secretary John Phelan calling for 'improvements' to address 'ambiguities'. Trump downplayed the issue, calling it 'minor details', but the Australian government has not provided further clarity on what changes may be sought. The deal, costing Australia upwards of $360bn, includes at least $2bn for US shipyards.
Opposition leader Sussan Ley criticised that Albanese failed to secure further tariff reductions, and that Australian ambassador Kevin Rudd was ineffective after Trump said he 'didn't like' him, though the president later said 'all is forgiven'. Trump also noted Australia has one of the 'lightest' tariff arrangements in the world.
