PM and Dutton Pledge Strong US Ties Regardless of Election Outcome

Both the leaders also paid tribute to outgoing US President Joe Biden.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (R) listens to the leader of the opposition Liberal Party Peter Dutton speak in the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra on October 16, 2023. Australians on October 14 roundly rejected greater rights for Indigenous citizens, scuppering plans to amend the country's 122-year-old constitution after a divisive and racially tinged referendum campaign. David Gray/Via Getty Images

As the United States awaits its election results, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have both reiterated their commitment to strengthening Australia’s alliance with the U.S., regardless of the election’s outcome.

In Parliament, Albanese highlighted the profound impact that a U.S. presidential election has on global affairs, particularly on Australia’s security and regional stability.

“Our government will seek and build a strong partnership with whoever the American people choose as their next president,” Albanese said.

In a nod to history, Albanese highlighted the Labour Party’s pivotal role in fortifying ties with the U.S., beginning with former Prime Minister John Curtin during World War II.

“Since then, the U.S. alliance has grown and prospered under Labor and Liberal governments, alongside Democratic and Republican administrations, enduring many global challenges,” he stated.

Dutton on Alliance Stability

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also affirmed the strength and resilience of the Australia-U.S. alliance, noting that Australians, like others worldwide, were closely watching the election results.

“Whatever the outcome, we know that for our relationship with the United States, it will endure,” Dutton said, expressing confidence in the alliance’s continued importance.

Dutton acknowledged the significance of a strong U.S. presence on the global stage, stating, “We want to see a safe election outcome for the United States, because when our close ally is strong and at its best, the world is in its best possible position.”

Tribute to Joe Biden

Albanese paid tribute to outgoing President Joe Biden, reflecting on their recent meetings and Biden’s dedication to the U.S.-Australia relationship.

“Within 48 hours of being sworn in as PM, I was meeting with President Biden at the Quad meeting in Tokyo,” Albanese shared.

“It was a whirlwind, but I'll never forget the genuine warmth of Joe’s welcome.”

He described Biden as an advocate for democracy and stability, crediting him for his focus on the Asia-Pacific region.

Albanese also acknowledged Biden’s legacy, including his long public service, his time as a senator and later as president.

“First elected to the Senate in 1972, Joe Biden has been a powerful advocate for working people, for democracy, and peace,” Albanese said.

He also recognised Biden’s commitment to climate change initiatives and defence cooperation, particularly through the AUKUS alliance and critical minerals partnership, which have further strengthened bilateral ties.

Looking ahead to upcoming global summits, including APEC and the G20, Albanese noted his eagerness to deepen Australia’s cooperation with the U.S. and other regional partners.

“We have made great progress on trade, technology, and climate,” he said, adding that the two countries’ cooperation benefits security and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific.

Dutton echoed the Prime Minister’s praise for Biden, recalling his own meeting with the President in New York. He commended Biden’s commitment to defence ties, particularly the coalition’s role in negotiating the AUKUS agreement alongside the United Kingdom.