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Australia’s defence industry minister is heading to the United States for defence talks, as Albanese prepares for his meeting with Trump next week.
Australia’s Minister for Defence Industry and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy, is headed to the United States for key talks with senior members of the Trump administration and defence industry leaders.
“Australia and the United States share a long-standing alliance. The United States is Australia’s principal strategic partner,” Minister Conroy said in a statement.
“Together, we play a vital role in supporting defence, security and economic prosperity, including in the Pacific region.”
AUKUS talks will be at the forefront of the trip, with the deal being the “most significant example of industrial cooperation” between Australia and the US. Playing a critical role in supporting Australia’s military expenditure, capacity and capabilities, the defence deal has been under review by the US Department of War but is reported to be safe and remain ongoing.
Whilst in Washington DC, Conroy will be attending the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting & Exposition, where Australia’s defence sector interests will be exhibited to key private defence industries and corporations. The AUSA meeting is North America’s leading land defence event and is a “critical meeting point” for top military and industry leaders.
As Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese prepares for his meeting with US President Donald Trump at the end of this month, Conroy said that the “Albanese government and the Trump administration share a steadfast commitment to advancing our defence industry”.
“Together with industry partners, we are delivering capability – decisively, efficiently and with clear purpose.”
Prime Minister Albanese’s meeting with President Trump, which was previously cancelled, is now planned for 20 October and will likely see both leaders pledge support for AUKUS and solidify the US’ role in maintaining stability in the Asia-Pacific region.
“I look forward to meeting with my counterparts in Washington to further strengthen our alliance through deeper collaboration across our industrial bases,” Minister Conroy said.
