The Australian government has announced that it remains steadfast in its commitment to the AUKUS security pact, even as the United States initiates a review of the agreement. On Thursday, Australian Defense Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles stated that such reviews are a natural part of international partnerships.
“We are fully committed to AUKUS and look forward to continued collaboration with the United States throughout their review process,” Marles said in a statement.
Speaking to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Marles expressed confidence that Australia would proceed with acquiring nuclear-powered submarines under the 2021 security arrangement with the U.S. and the United Kingdom. “This partnership is crucial for our national security and regional stability,” he added.
Earlier, Marles met with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, where discussions included defense spending and shared strategic interests. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized Australia’s sovereignty in defense budgeting, stating in a speech in Canberra, “Our defense spending decisions are made independently and reflect Australia’s priorities.”
Albanese is expected to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the upcoming G7 summit in Canada, where further discussions on the AUKUS pact are anticipated.
