Meeting Overview
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, convened today during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia, Samoa. This marks their first meeting since the election of the Starmer Government.
Dynamic Relationship Discussion
During this important engagement, the Prime Ministers discussed the evolving and dynamic relationship between Australia and the UK, characterised by deep personal ties alongside robust security, trade, and investment connections. They deliberated on how both nations can enhance their collaboration to address shared challenges and seize new opportunities.
Economic Opportunities in Net Zero Transition
Both leaders acknowledged that transitioning to net zero emissions presents a significant economic opportunity. The Albanese and Starmer administrations believe that harnessing private capital in conjunction with governmental initiatives can drive the development of a sustainable energy future, benefiting working communities. This transition is set to catalyse new industries, foster innovative technologies, and create numerous job opportunities, ultimately revitalising the industrial sectors of both nations.
Australia–UK Climate and Energy Partnership
To facilitate this vision, the Prime Ministers agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation on climate change and energy by establishing a forward-looking partnership. The Australia–UK Climate and Energy Partnership will focus on advancing and accelerating the deployment of renewable energy technologies, including green hydrogen and offshore wind, which are vital for meeting both countries’ economic resilience and decarbonisation targets.
Building on Long-standing Cooperation
This partnership aims to build upon the long-standing collaboration between Australia and the UK in international climate action, specifically targeting renewable energy and climate finance initiatives. The Prime Ministers agreed that the Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy and the UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero will spearhead this crucial work.
Grant Recipients Announcement
Additionally, the leaders announced the grant recipients of the Australia-UK Renewable Hydrogen Innovation Partnership Program, which will support six pioneering projects aimed at promoting industrial decarbonisation.
Trade and Investment Gains
In discussions regarding trade and investment, the Prime Ministers underscored the advancements achieved through the ambitious Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement. They also noted that the UK’s upcoming accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership later this year will provide new opportunities for both nations within the region.
Defence and Strategic Cooperation
Defence and strategic cooperation were also focal points of the discussions, with both leaders committed to ensuring that the AUKUS partnership enhances security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. They reiterated their commitment to negotiating a bilateral treaty, as outlined by Defence Ministers in September 2024, with the goal of advancing the development of the SSN-AUKUS submarine for both nations.
Commitment to Non-Proliferation Standards
The Prime Ministers reiterated their commitment to adhering to the highest non-proliferation standards and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, with respect for sovereignty and international laws.
Statements from the Prime Ministers
“Prime Minister Albanese stated, ‘Australia and the UK share a longstanding partnership, bonded by common values and aligned strategic interests.’ It was a pleasure to personally congratulate Prime Minister Starmer on his election victory in July. Our discussions were fruitful, particularly regarding the negotiation of a new climate and energy partnership, which will help us fully realise the economic potential of the net zero transition and bolster our commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. We envision a modern and transformed relationship between Australia and the UK that provides tangible benefits and prosperity for our nations and the wider Indo-Pacific.”
Prime Minister Starmer added, “The UK and Australia have much in common, especially our shared commitment to improving the lives of working people, stimulating economic growth, and ensuring access to cleaner, more affordable energy. This partnership demonstrates our dedication to advancing clean energy projects that will positively impact communities across the UK. Together, we are working towards better futures for our nations, enhancing our national security with initiatives like AUKUS, and fulfilling our commitments to net zero.”