PM Luxon and PM Albanese Strengthen Trans-Tasman Ties During Productive Visit

“Prime Minister Albanese and I had a hugely productive discussion, and I’m pleased to report our relationship is stronger than ever,” Mr. Luxon stated.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon concluded a successful two-day visit to Australia, highlighted by a productive meeting with his Australian counterpart, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in Canberra. The leaders emphasized the enduring strength of the trans-Tasman relationship and agreed to enhance cooperation to address modern challenges.

“Prime Minister Albanese and I had a hugely productive discussion, and I’m pleased to report our relationship is stronger than ever,” Mr. Luxon stated.

The leaders released a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to ensuring the trans-Tasman alliance remains robust in the contemporary context. Key areas of collaboration include supporting Pacific priorities, with both leaders anticipating the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga, where they will engage with regional leaders.

In a significant move, they directed their Defence Ministers to sign a renewed Joint Statement on Closer Defence Relations, aimed at fostering greater integration and seamless cooperation between the two countries' defence forces.

Economic integration and trade were also central to the discussions. “Australia is our most important economic partner, and we want to make it even easier to do business across the Tasman,” Mr. Luxon said. The two nations are committed to promoting greater regulatory alignment, particularly in emerging areas like the clean energy transition, and to improving mutual recognition arrangements to facilitate more seamless trade.

During his visit, Mr. Luxon also met with members of the New South Wales Government, engaged in infrastructure-focused discussions, connected with Australian business leaders and investors, and delivered a speech at the Lowy Institute in Sydney.