Karl Stefanovic grills Jim Chalmers : Jim Chalmers has defended the government’s decision to send the Deputy Prime Minister to the NATO summit in place of Anthony Albanese.
Speaking on Today this morning, the Treasurer was questioned about the choice, amid growing concerns that the Australian and US leaders are repeatedly missing chances to meet in person to address key issues such as Middle East tensions and trade tariffs.
The stakes are high, and I just don’t understand why Albo isn’t in The Hague right now, shaking Donald Trump’s cage for a meeting,” host Karl Stefanovic challenged.
Chalmers Defends Marles’ NATO Summit Attendance Amid Albanese-Trump Meeting Concerns
What could possibly take priority right now over our Prime Minister sitting down with the U.S. President? Just look at what’s on the line for our country,” the Today host remarked.
He even jokingly suggested that maybe the U.S. President “just isn’t that into Albo.
Can you imagine how awkward it would be for the Prime Minister if Richard Marles ended up meeting the President face-to-face before he did?” he asked.
Treasurer Rejects Claims of Diplomatic Snub, Backs Deputy PM to Represent Australia on Global Stage
Chalmers defended the decision, saying Richard Marles is more than capable of representing Australia at the NATO summit and assured there will be ample chances for Australia and the U.S. to connect in the future.
There’s no doubt the Prime Minister will have opportunities to engage with President Trump. They’ve already had several conversations during this second Trump administration. Richard will do an excellent job representing Australia and our interests at the summit,” Chalmers said.
He dismissed Karl’s suggestion that it would be “embarrassing” if Marles met with Trump before Albanese, expressing full confidence in the Deputy Prime Minister’s ability to represent the nation on the global stage.
I genuinely don’t see it that way, Karl. I think it would be a positive opportunity, a good outcome — but whether it happens or not is still uncertain,” Chalmers responded.
He praised Marles, saying, “Richard does an excellent job representing Australia with confidence on the international stage, and that’s exactly what he’ll be doing at the NATO summit.
While Chalmers acknowledged it’s unclear whether Marles will have a chance to speak with Trump during the summit, he emphasized the importance of Australia’s presence.
What matters is that Australia is represented — and by the Deputy Prime Minister, who is also the Defence Minister,” he said. “It’s a valuable opportunity for Australia to engage globally, and we intend to make the most of it.
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