US President Biden and Australian PM Albanese to Discuss Maritime and Cybersecurity Defense
Introduction
US President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are set to hold discussions on maritime and cybersecurity defense during an official visit to the White House. This visit comes as the two nations coordinate their strategy towards China, and as the Middle East faces a crisis. The visit will result in a series of agreements aimed at deterring and competing with China, while also attempting to improve relations with Beijing.
Enhancing Defense Cooperation
The expected deals include launching an undersea internet cable project and investing in maritime wharf infrastructure. These initiatives are designed to benefit Pacific Island nations and strengthen their support in any future conflict involving Taiwan or the South China Sea. Additionally, the US and Australia will announce wider security cooperation with Japan, further solidifying their collective defense agreement.
Complex Challenges
However, striking a balance between strengthening deterrence against China and maintaining diplomatic relations is challenging. The ongoing crisis in the Middle East has diverted attention away from the Indo-Pacific, and the approval of laws necessary for the AUKUS defense partnership has been complicated by a leadership vacuum in the US House of Representatives. The AUKUS deal involves transferring sensitive nuclear submarine technology to Australia.
Commitment to AUKUS Partnership
Despite the delays, the Biden administration has submitted a supplementary budget request to Congress to support US commitments under the AUKUS partnership. President Biden will reassure Prime Minister Albanese that the US remains committed to the deal and that the necessary steps will be taken to move it forward.
Countering China’s Influence
The US and Australia are working together to counter China’s territorial claims and reduce trade dependence on the country. They plan to enhance cybersecurity cooperation and boost Australia’s rare earth minerals output, reducing reliance on China as the dominant supplier. President Biden will also announce that a cyberattack on Australia could be considered an “armed” attack, triggering US collective defense obligations.
Strengthening the Alliance
Beyond defense and security, President Biden and Prime Minister Albanese will focus on strengthening the US-Australian alliance. During their visit, they will enjoy a three-course banquet prepared by a renowned chef, accompanied by the beauty of American Monarch butterflies and Australian Cairns Birdwing butterflies. The planned performance by the B-52s at the dinner has been replaced by music from a US military band, reflecting the current political atmosphere.
With President Biden’s emphasis on strengthening alliances and addressing global challenges, the meeting with Prime Minister Albanese marks an important step in coordinating efforts to address China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The discussions on maritime and cybersecurity defense will contribute to a more robust and coordinated strategy between the US and Australia.
