This week, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be lavishly welcomed by US President Joe Biden at the White House, with discussions regarding China and Ukraine on the agenda.
The state visit comes as Washington seeks to strengthen relations with longstanding ally Australia as part of a larger effort to confront Beijing in the Asia-Pacific region.
While the Israel-Hamas and Ukraine wars simmer on the other side of the planet, Albanese, who will be honoured with a sumptuous state banquet, is attempting to keep Biden focused on Australia’s neighbourhood.
“It will be an important visit,” Albanese said before departing on Sunday. “The alliance between Australia and the United States is central to Australia’s foreign policy.”
