JUST IN: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has kicked off a major international mission this week.

 Prime Minister Albanese Embarks on Major Global Diplomatic Mission

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has commenced a significant international tour this week, with a packed agenda that includes high-level engagements at the United Nations General Assembly, a conference on the recognition of Palestinian statehood, and a pivotal global climate summit.

Australia to Recognise Palestinian Statehood

On Monday, Australia is expected to take a historic step by formally recognising the state of Palestine during a special UN conference. This move marks a notable shift in Australia’s foreign policy and aligns with increasing global calls for a two-state solution in the Middle East.

Albanese to Deliver First UN Climate Speech: Later in the week, on Wednesday, Prime Minister Albanese will deliver his first-ever address to the UN on climate change. He is set to outline Australia’s updated emissions reduction targets and reaffirm the nation's commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050

This speech will highlight Australia's renewed role in global climate leadership, particularly after the recent legislation to boost clean energy investments and phase out coal dependency.

While in New York, Albanese is also scheduled to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The two leaders will discuss new social media safety regulations, particularly focusing on online protections for children and teenagers — a pressing issue in both Europe and Australia.

Will Albanese Meet U.S. President Donald Trump?

One of the most anticipated moments of the trip is whether Albanese will hold a face-to-face meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite recent meetings between Trump and leaders from countries like Germany, Japan, India, and Israel, a bilateral meeting with the Australian Prime Minister has yet to be confirmed.

Their last planned interaction, during the G7 Summit, was cancelled due to Trump’s emergency consultations over the escalating Iran-Israel conflict.

With major geopolitical matters such as AUKUS, China relations, and the Quad alliance on the table, observers say a meeting between the two leaders is more important than ever.

Trump recently hinted at the possibility, telling a reporter, “Your leader is coming over to see me very soon.” However, no official confirmation has been released by either side.

This trip represents a significant opportunity for Prime Minister Albanese to strengthen Australia’s international partnerships, showcase leadership on climate change, and advocate for global cooperation on digital safety. Whether or not a U.S.-Australia summit occurs, the outcomes of this mission could shape Australia’s foreign policy direction for years to come.