Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese departs today for a three-nation diplomatic mission covering the United States, the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates.
The trip marks his first address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York during High-Level Week, a key moment for his foreign policy agenda.
In Washington, Albanese will advance his government’s “Future Made in Australia” agenda, seeking to attract investment in renewable energy and strengthen trade partnerships. Central to his UN speech will be Australia’s support for the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian question and its commitment to the Two-State Solution—positions long associated with Canberra’s adherence to international law. He will also present Australia’s new climate target under the Paris Agreement and emphasize Australia’s leadership in child online safety, an issue growing in global significance.
In London, Albanese will meet British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for discussions on bilateral trade deals, economic cooperation, and updates on AUKUS, the trilateral defence pact between Australia, the UK and the US.
The final leg of his journey will be in the United Arab Emirates, where he will meet President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Talks will focus on the Australia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, aiming to deepen economic ties and explore new opportunities in energy and innovation.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles will serve as Acting Prime Minister while Albanese is abroad. Analysts see the visit as vital for reinforcing Australia’s standing as a middle power actively engaged in global challenges. As Albanese stated, “Middle powers and smaller nations must have their voices heard as we tackle the great challenges facing our world.”
