Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised the relationship between Australia and the United Kingdom during a speech at the UK Labour Party conference in Liverpool. He expressed a commitment to "defend democracy itself" alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who he referred to as "my mate." The two leaders embraced on stage amid speculation about a potential leadership challenge to Starmer.

Albanese's appearance in Liverpool marked the conclusion of a significant overseas trip that included an address to the United Nations in New York and a meeting with King Charles III at Balmoral Castle. The leaders emphasized their dedication to the AUKUS defense pact, which strengthens security ties between Australia, the UK, and the United States.

In his speech, Albanese criticized what he termed "the low politics of fear and resentment" that he believes are gaining traction in the UK and beyond. He highlighted a growing erosion of trust in political institutions and the rise of extremist movements. "We all know this is a time when trust in governments and institutions is under challenge," he stated. "We all sense this is an era when our capacity for peaceful disagreement is being tested."

Albanese expressed a shared determination with Starmer to stand united in defending democracy. He remarked, "Tearing things down is easy but it doesn't leave you with anything. The low politics of fear and resentment are easy but they only divide the country, they don't advance it."

During his visit, Albanese also met with UK Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch but did not have time to meet with Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, a right-wing populist party that has been leading in polls amid public discontent over cost of living issues and illegal immigration.

Looking ahead, Albanese is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump next month. He used his speech to highlight the historical ties between the Australian Labor Party and its UK counterpart, discussing topics such as public services, artificial intelligence, job creation, and climate change.

Albanese was noncommittal about the specifics of Australia's critical minerals offer to the United States, which he had previously discussed with Starmer. He referenced the legacy of past Labor leaders, saying, "Clement Attlee and Ben Chifley and their Labor governments worked to build societies worthy of those who'd fought to defend the world from fascism and tyranny."

He emphasized the importance of creating secure, well-paid jobs in manufacturing and ensuring affordable healthcare for all Australians through initiatives like the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and the National Health Service.

As the only foreign leader to address the conference, Albanese received a warm reception from the UK Labour Party members, with Starmer introducing him as "a real inspiration" and "a true friend of Britain." Albanese concluded by stressing the need to adapt to the changes brought by artificial intelligence, advocating for secure jobs and fair wages for citizens, particularly as young people face challenges in the housing market.