'Australia should get the best treatment': Albanese's phone call with Trump

United States President Donald Trump indicated on Thursday that he would consider exempting Australian exports from his administration's broad-based tariffs, following a call with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. In his account of the conversation, Albanese described it as "warm and productive," stating he had made a strong case for the US to offer Australia the best treatment.

He emphasized that he requested Australia's status as a friend of the US be taken into account during the discussions. Albanese informed Trump of Australia's strong stance on modern slavery concerns and the strengthening measures the country has taken to hold companies accountable in their supply chains. The two leaders also discussed the AUKUS submarine deal, the war in Iran, and Australia's recent alliances in the Pacific.

Albanese confirmed the call came shortly after Pentagon official and former AUKUS critic Elbridge Colby confirmed the deal was moving forward. Albanese briefed Trump on the Middle East situation, including concerns about Iran's potential nuclear weapons development, and the recent Chinese ballistic missile test in the Pacific. The Australian leader has spoken with Trump at least five times since taking office and plans to meet him in person later in the year, including a visit to the UN and the G20 summit.