Albanese heads to Commonwealth summit to advance UN council bid
Talks in Antigua and Barbuda will also cover climate change, artificial intelligence and trade, with separate meetings planned with British and Canadian leaders.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is travelling to Antigua and Barbuda for the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, where he will promote Australia's campaign to join the United Nations Security Council in 2029-30.
Albanese said King Charles had personally requested his attendance. He said the gathering offered a chance to work with close partners on climate change, ocean protection, investment, trade and artificial intelligence. Leaders from 56 nations will be available for discussions ahead of several other international summits in November.
Separate talks are planned with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Albanese is also expected to meet Pacific and African leaders. His first official meeting with Burnham is set to address AI, fuel security during the Middle East war and rising numbers of British backpackers in Australia.
Caribbean and Pacific leaders also want to discuss climate change and the consequences of colonisation. Caribbean and African leaders are seeking further talks on reparatory justice for slavery, although Burnham's government has ruled out reparations payments. Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey has urged members to strengthen trade cooperation and social mobility.
