Anthony Albanese was so chuffed with his meeting with US President Donald Trump that the prime minister joked he’d use Trump’s endorsement in his next campaign ads.

While Trump is used to a procession of world leaders coming through his door, there was more at stake for Albanese, who is trying to manage an increasingly difficult relationship.

In the end, the two leaders struck a major critical minerals agreement that will see billions in US investment pumped into Australia, and made assurances the AUKUS deal is on track.

But there are lingering questions about what that deal will mean for our relationship with China and whether AUKUS will really go ‘full steam ahead’.

Today, press gallery journalist Karen Middleton on what went on inside the room when the two leaders met, and what it all means for the Australia–US alliance.

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Guest: Press gallery journalist, Karen Middleton

Photo: AP Photo/Evan Vucci

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