Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Australia to join forces as “strategic cousins” to counter dominant superpowers, including the United States under Donald Trump, during a visit to Canberra. Addressing the Australian federal parliament, Carney called for enhanced cooperation on critical minerals, defence, and trade, announcing that Australia will join the G7 critical minerals alliance.
Carney emphasised that Canada and Australia, as middle powers, must collaborate rather than compete. Combined, the two countries produce 34% of global lithium, 32% of uranium, and 41% of iron ore. He reaffirmed the importance of the Five Eyes intelligence network, stating it continues to function well despite global challenges.
In a press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Carney said, “In the old world, the temptation has been to see ourselves as competitors. In this new world, we should be strategic collaborators.” He advocated for boosting investments, accelerating technical cooperation, and enhancing supply chain resilience.
On international security, Carney softened his stance on US and Israeli strikes on Iran, saying they appeared unlawful without UN Security Council support. Both leaders called for de-escalation, with Albanese stressing the need to remove Iran’s nuclear threat. Carney also highlighted the need for middle powers to build sovereign AI capabilities to avoid dependence on hyperscalers and hegemons.
Carney’s visit underscores a push for renewed middle-power diplomacy, urging countries like Japan, India, and South Korea to band together to protect institutions and advance mutual interests.
