Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): In a warm and symbolic display of diplomatic camaraderie, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in Calgary ahead of the G7 Summit in Alberta, breaking from strict protocol to underscore the close bond between the two countries.
The meeting comes as world leaders converge on Alberta for the G7 Summit, running from June 15 to 17, with key discussions on global security, climate resilience, and economic cooperation on the agenda.
Symbolic Gifts Reflect Shared Heritage
The leaders began their meeting with a handshake on the tarmac beside Albanese’s slate-blue RAAF jet, where he was greeted by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek, and Canada’s Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski. Expressions of thanks flowed freely, especially for Australia’s rapid response in sending 96 firefighters to help battle Canada’s devastating Northern Prairies wildfires.
In a symbolic exchange of gifts, Prime Minister Carney presented Albanese with a classic Canadian Stetson cowboy hat, emblematic of the country’s rugged western spirit. Albanese reciprocated with a traditional Australian Akubra, equally iconic in his homeland.
The exchange didn’t stop there. Albanese also gifted Carney a framed poster of the iconic Australian film Gallipoli — a tribute to shared military history. In return, Carney offered a cold-cast bronze bear sculpture by Canadian artist Roy Hinz, representing Canada’s wilderness and strength.
“You always do, and Australia always does step up,” Carney said, personally thanking Albanese for Australia’s firefighting support. “You can always rely upon Australia,” Albanese replied. “I know our firefighters are really proud.”
Defence Deals and Minerals on the Table
In a significant development, the two leaders celebrated Canada’s decision to acquire Australia’s Jindalee Operational Radar Network (JORN) for $6.5 billion, a high-tech system that will significantly boost Canada’s Arctic surveillance capabilities.
Beyond defence, the leaders explored deepening collaboration on critical minerals, essential to powering the clean energy transition. Carney praised Australia’s leadership, stating the country “had a lot to contribute to the G7” on mineral security and green tech supply chains.
Australia’s Growing G7 Presence
Although not a G7 member, Australia was invited as a guest nation to this year’s summit. Albanese expressed his appreciation, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation on climate action, global prosperity, and security.
Over the next two days, Albanese is expected to hold high-level meetings with leaders from South Korea, Germany, France, Japan, the UK, the European Union, and notably, his first in-person meeting with US President Donald Trump.
Trade will also be a point of discussion. Albanese plans to raise concerns over steel and aluminium tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and emphasize the importance of AUKUS, the trilateral defence pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
As the G7 Summit gets underway, the tone of this early bilateral between Canada and Australia sets a clear example: longstanding allies, symbolic gestures, and bold partnerships are back in focus in an increasingly uncertain world.
