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As world leaders get ready to convene for the G7 in Canada, it remains unconfirmed if the highly-anticipated face-to-face discussions, expected to focus on defense and trade, will actually occur.
A military parade planned for this weekend and the unrest in Los Angeles are both threatening to limit the president’s schedule at the G7.
But deputy Nationals leader Kevin Hogan won’t take no for an answer.
“It is a non-negotiable. Albanese just has to simply meet the president this week,” he said today.
“…There would need to be several questions raised if the prime minister can’t coordinate an in-person meeting alongside the G7 summit this week.”
Australian officials are confident they will secure a face-to-face meeting.
According to former Liberal senator and ambassador to the US Arthur Sinodinos, Albanese would likely be cautious about “revealing too much” during any tariff negotiations.
That includes any modification to biosecurity laws for the importation of American beef into Australia.
Privately and publicly, America has floated greater access to Australia’s critical minerals as a possible lure to reduce tariffs on our products.
There’s also pressure for increased defence spending but that’s not likely a deal breaker.
“It’s not about chasing a particular number,” Defence Minister Richard Marles told Sky News today.Â
“It’s about chasing capability, making sure we have what we need to meet the strategic moment and you resource that.”
