In a surprise move, the highly anticipated meeting between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Donald Trump has been cancelled.
The meeting was set to take place on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada, but Trump has decided to leave the summit early due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
What Was on the Agenda?
The two leaders were expected to discuss several key issues, including US steel and aluminium tariffs on Australian goods and the AUKUS deal, which is currently under review in Washington.
However, with Trump’s early departure, these important talks will have to wait.
Trump’s Sudden Exit
Just hours after securing a trade deal with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump announced that he would be leaving the G7 summit early.
The US press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, took to social media to share the news, citing the rising tensions in the Middle East as the reason for Trump’s sudden exit.
Albanese’s Reaction
Prime Minister Albanese had expressed his enthusiasm for the meeting just minutes before the cancellation was announced.
He had been preparing for the talks, discussing key issues with US Ambassador Kevin Rudd and even seeking advice from golfer Greg Norman.
Despite the cancellation, Albanese’s office has stated that they understand the reasoning behind Trump’s decision, given the current situation in the Middle East.
What’s Next?
With the meeting cancelled, questions still remain about the US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Australia.
The UK has recently secured a carve-out, with zero tariffs for its aerospace sector and reduced tariffs for its auto industry.
Albanese has expressed his desire to secure a similar deal for Australia, but it remains to be seen whether this will be possible.
The Impact of US Tariffs on Australia
The US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Australia have been a major concern for the country’s exporters.
With approximately 10% of Australia’s steel and aluminium exports destined for the US, the tariffs have resulted in higher costs for American consumers.
Albanese has argued that these tariffs are not in the best interests of either the US or Australia, and has urged for a resolution to the issue.
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