Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has told the Australian parliament that the post-war global architecture is "breaking down from consecutive crises." He urged Australia and Canada to collaborate as "strategic cousins" to shape the new rules of security and prosperity, rather than letting "hegemons dictate outcomes."
Carney advocated for enhanced cooperation in critical minerals, defense, and AI, echoing his earlier calls for middle powers to band together. He noted that many nations are increasing their sovereign autonomy, especially when existing rules no longer offer protection.
Following the address, Carney and Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese announced measures to deepen bilateral relationships in defense, security, and space agencies. Australia will also join the G7 Critical Minerals Alliance, a key grouping for trusted democratic mineral reserves.
Canada and Australia are significant producers of uranium, lithium, and iron ore. Albanese emphasized the shared convictions and values binding the two nations, calling for new ways to support each other.
Both leaders also called for de-escalation in the Middle East and stressed that a ceasefire should not occur until Iran ceases its nuclear weapon production capability. Albanese highlighted Iran's threat to regional and global stability, referencing past antisemitic attacks in Australia.