Anthony Albanese defends US president as meeting delays continue

Anthony Albanese has dismissed concerns around his lack of face-time with US President Donald Trump, saying they have a "respectful" relationship.

The prime minister was due to meet Trump at the Group of Seven summit in Canada last month, before the US president left early to, as it turned out, oversee US strikes on Iranian nuclear assets.

Since then, no firm date has been set for a meeting between the two world leaders, with Albanese opting not to attend the recent NATO summit.

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Karl Stefanovic suggested the "brush off" was "disrespectful" of the US president, even if it was important Australia not ruffle any feathers.

"I can't comprehend how the president, given how close allies we have been with the US for so long, couldn't give a rat's about meeting with you," the Today host said.

"I think it's so disrespectful, why don't you just tell him to bugger off?"

But Albanese conceded while the timeline was a bit open-ended, a meeting would happen.

"We've had a few constructive discussions. I'm sure when we meet it will be constructive as well," he told Today.

Two subjects likely to be on the agenda when the hypothetical meeting does take place are defence, including Australia's military spending and the AUKUS agreement, and the White House's implementation of tariffs on Australian imports.

But Albanese pointed out that not only was the tariff on Australian goods and services the lowest imposed by the US, at 10 per cent, but also that it had not halted exports.

Australian beef exports to the US were up in value in April this year compared to April last year, Albanese said.

"So the goods are still being exported, it's just that those purchasing those goods are paying more for them," he said.

"And that is why tariffs are an act of economic self-harm. That's why we haven't reciprocated by imposing tariffs on US imports into Australia, consistent with our free trade agreement."

Albanese said he would also "talk Australia up" as an "important ally" in US defence.

"We contribute so much to peace and security in our own region by investing in our capabilities," he said.

"But importantly as well, the role that we play in investing in our relationships in the region is absolutely critical."

Albanese said the "constructive" relationship with the US, including high-level talks with members of the Trump administration, would continue despite differing views on subjects like tariffs.

"Now, this president has a right to adopt his America First policy, as he calls it," he said.

"We have a right to represent Australia's national interests."

Hear Today's full chat with the Australian leader in the video above