Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is mulling over a quick trip to Europe in order to meet with former US President Donald Trump, following the cancellation of their planned bilateral meeting after the G7 summit in Canada.
NATO leaders are set to convene in The Hague on June 24-25, with discussions likely to center on the expanding conflict in the Middle East.
Prior to departing from the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Mr. Albanese mentioned that joining the NATO talks next week is under consideration, with this contingent on finalizing a face-to-face meeting with the former US President.
Albanese had been planning to discuss Australia’s defense expenditure, the AUKUS nuclear submarines agreement, and the US trade tariffs with Trump. However, Trump’s early departure from the summit to address the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran thwarted those discussions.
At the G7, Albanese instead met with the US Treasury Secretary, Trade Representative, and the Director of the National Economic Council.
A government spokesperson confirmed that the US Ambassador joined these meetings, where discussions also touched on broader trade issues, critical minerals, and rare earths.
Albanese maintained his composure regarding Trump’s sudden departure and the subsequent cancellation, noting the Australian government’s eagerness to secure a meeting in the near future. A warm encounter with the NATO Secretary-General was also reported.
Australia is participating in NATO’s critical minerals action plan, as endorsed by Albanese. High-level talks about a new defense and security pact with the EU were also held during the summit.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/18/anthony-albanese-australia-pm-snap-visit-europe-nato-trump-meeting
