Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Monday, October 20, for high-stakes talks expected to center on rare earths, critical minerals, and security.

The $8.5-billion deal comes as the White House seeks to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains and as Australia looks to shore up ties with the U.S.

The distance from New Zealand and Australia is wide, but they're still veritable neighbors. That's why Utah Gov. Spencer Cox is leading a special trade mission to Oceania next week.

Australia hopes that an ambitious trade deal to be signed on Sunday between 15 Asia-Pacific economies will help improve the country's strained relations with China, Australia's Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to meet for the first time in person since the start of Trump's second administration.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox leads a trade mission to New Zealand & Australia that includes dozens of local civic & industry leaders. Trade mission delegates are focusing on three industry tracks: Aerospace & Defense, Critical Minerals, and Development and Innovation.

SYDNEY--Australia's Pinnacle Investment Management agreed to acquire up to 13% in Japan's Advantage Partners in a deal valuing the diversified private-markets platform at about US$1.19 billion.