Anthony Albanese says he will push for improved global peace and security during meetings with world leaders this week, as allies of Donald Trump warn Australia’s recognition of Palestine could spark “punitive measures” from the US.
Albanese arrived in New York on Sunday morning, Australian time, ahead of the UN general assembly and his possible first meeting with the US president.
Australia will use the UN talks to formally recognise Palestinian statehood, in concert with countries including France, Canada and the UK, but the decision has sparked a backlash from Israel and allies of Trump in Washington.
“What we want to see is increased peace and security and stability around the world,” Albanese said. “Australia plays an important role. We are a trusted partner and an ally.”
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A group of 25 senior Republican lawmakers, including Texas senator Ted Cruz and Trump loyalist Elise Stefanik of New York, have written to the prime minister, as well as French president Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer of Britain and Mark Carney of Canada, urging a rethink.
The letter was sent to Trump and the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio.
“This is a reckless policy that undermines prospects for peace. It sets the dangerous precedent that violence, not diplomacy, is the most expedient means for terrorist groups like Hamas to achieve their political aims,” the letter said.
“This misguided effort to reward terrorism also imperils the security of your own countries.
“Proposed recognition is coinciding with sharp increases in antisemitic activity in each of your countries. Jews are facing unprecedented harassment and attacks against them are becoming a common occurrence.”
The group warned the US could retaliate over the recognition plan, first announced in August.
“Proceeding with recognition will put your country at odds with longstanding U.S. policy and interests and may invite punitive measures in response.”
Albanese has arrived in the US without confirmation he will meet Trump. The pair had been due to hold face-to-face talks on the sidelines of June’s G7 meeting in Canada but Trump left a day early.
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A reception for world leaders attending the UN general assembly could be their first chance to talk but Australia has pushed for a more substantial meeting while Albanese is in the US.
Trump will attend the Apec summit in South Korea in October, holding talks with Chinese president Xi Jinping. Albanese is also due to attend the event.
The prime minister is expected to take part in a major conference on a possible two-state solution between Israel and Palestine this week, hosted by the leaders of France and Saudi Arabia.
He is also seeking a meeting with Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, to discuss rival bids to host the Cop31 climate summit next year.
Trump, fresh from a state visit to Britain, has a tight schedule in New York. He is expected to visit only for a couple of days, after the funeral on Sunday of murdered rightwing commentator Charlie Kirk.
Albanese and Trump will both deliver national addresses to the general assembly.
