‘We want to see the talks resume’: Anthony Albanese continues push for Iran-US conflict to end
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The news: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wants to see talks continue between the US and Iran, saying he wants to see “a settlement” to the conflict in the Middle East as Australia continues to be rocked by the disruptions to the region.
Speaking on Channel 7’s Sunrise on Monday morning, Albanese said he wants “to see the talks resume”.
He also defended the federal government’s new advertising campaign launched on Monday, providing the public with advice on how to use less fuel.
When asked whether the multi-million-dollar cost of the advertising was worthwhile, Albanese said the government is aiming to “keep the economy moving” without the “heavy handed action” seen during Covid. Economists have increasingly been debating the merits of imposing rationing on fuel.
The context: Albanese recently returned from Singapore and will travel to Brunei and Malaysia later this week in a bid to ensure the flow of fertiliser, energy supplies and other critical goods. He will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Penny Wong who said on Sunday the failure of negotiations between the US and Iran was “disappointing” and urged the parties to maintain the ceasefire.
“Australia is, of course, at the front of the queue because of the relationship we’ve built up with Singapore,” Albanese said, when asked about reports some parts of the region may prioritise their own supplies.
He said Singapore was not intending to impose export controls but he noted the “uncertain times” facing the world.
What they said: "It’s unfortunate that the negotiations for a permanent peace deal and settlement in the Middle East broke down yesterday,” Albanese said.
“We want to see those talks resume. We want to see an end to the conflict in the Middle East. And we want to see the Strait of Hormuz opened with freedom of navigation,” he said.
The source: Channel 7 Sunrise interview
