President Trump to meet with the Australian prime minister, set to discuss critical minerals

Geopolitical & Trade Dynamics - The meeting between President Trump and the Australian Prime Minister focuses on critical minerals, trade, and the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal [1][2][3][4] - Australia aims to solidify US commitment to the AUKUS submarine agreement, facing potential challenges due to US submarine scarcity [4] - Australia navigates a delicate balance between the US and China, given its geographic and economic proximity to China [3][4][7] - The US is pursuing individual trade deals globally, with the status of a potential trade deal with Australia currently unclear [6] Critical Minerals & Rare Earths - Access to rare earths and critical minerals is a key issue, with Australia positioned as a reliable alternative supplier as China reduces access [1][3][8] - Australia views the opportunity to provide critical minerals as a "golden opportunity" due to China's pullback [8] - Australia possesses significant critical mineral reserves and may seek to establish access deals during the meeting [8][9] Diplomatic Considerations - Foreign leaders are wary of potentially problematic meetings with President Trump, aiming to avoid diplomatic missteps [5] - Australia seeks to achieve trade and resource gains while avoiding diplomatic issues during the meeting [5]