In a speech to Australia’s Parliament, Prime Minister Mark Carney called for closer ties between Canada and Australia, framing the two nations as “strategic cousins” at a time of increasing global instability. Carney emphasized the demand for collaboration in the face of a “breakdown” in the established global order.
Strengthening the Canada-Australia Partnership
Carney and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed agreements focused on critical minerals, artificial intelligence and defence. A new “tax and investment treaty” was also inked to encourage bilateral business investment. The Prime Minister received a 19-gun salute and a military band playing O Canada upon arrival at Parliament House in Canberra, where he later met with Albanese and his full cabinet—a rare occurrence—to discuss the new initiatives.
Carney described Canada and Australia as sharing a “common heritage” and “similar political institutions,” positioning them to address shared challenges. He acknowledged the potential for competition given both countries’ rich natural resources but argued that cooperation is the more advantageous path.
Addressing a Changing World Order
Carney warned that larger global powers, referred to as “hegemons” like the U.S. And China, are “weaponizing” their economic influence and creating vulnerabilities for middle powers. He suggested a strategy of “variable geometry,” forming partnerships with select countries to address specific issues, citing the Australia-Canada-India technology partnership as an example. Canada, he stated, is focused on building “resilience and strategic autonomy” through a network of connections.
A joint critical minerals alliance was announced, with plans to collaborate on lithium, uranium, and iron ore—resources where Canada and Australia collectively control roughly a third of global supplies. Carney also indicated Australia could play a key role in forging a larger trading bloc encompassing the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the European Union.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary purpose of Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Australia?
The primary purpose of Prime Minister Carney’s visit was to bolster ties with Australia and explore opportunities for increased cooperation on issues such as trade, defence, critical minerals, and technology.
What did Prime Minister Carney mean by “hegemons”?
Prime Minister Carney used the term “hegemons” to refer to larger global powers, such as the U.S. And China, that he believes are using their economic influence in ways that create vulnerabilities for smaller nations.
What is “variable geometry” as described by Prime Minister Carney?
“Variable geometry” refers to a strategy of working with smaller, select groups of countries to address specific issues, rather than relying solely on large, traditional multilateral institutions.
As Canada and Australia navigate a shifting global landscape, what role will these strengthened partnerships play in shaping their future economic and security interests?
