Foreign Minister Penny Wong to attend Donald Trump’s inauguration next week

Penny Wong will attend President Donald Trump’s inauguration on behalf of the Albanese Government, flagging meetings with senior administration members to expand co-operation with the US.

In a statement on Sunday, the Foreign Minister, along with Australian ambassador Kevin Rudd, would both attend Mr Trump’s swearing-in at the US Capitol building on January 20.

Senator Wong, who will also be having meetings with Trump Administration members , members of Congressional representatives while in the US, said the invitation built on the Prime Minister’s recent discussion with Mr Trump’s team.

“I am honoured to be invited to attend President Donald Trump’s inauguration. It is a demonstration of the steadfast alliance between Australia and the United States,” she said.

“I am also looking forward to meeting with members of the Trump Administration and Congress during my visit to Washington.

“The United States is Australia’s vital ally, closest global partner, and most important strategic relationship.

“This early visit will be an important opportunity to discuss how we can advance the benefits of our strong economic and security partnership and expand our cooperation.”

Senator Wong pointed to Dr Rudd’s engagement with senior Republicans following the election result, as well as the Prime Minister’s US visit in 2023 as proof of the Government’s willingness to work with the new administration.

The comment follows significant pressure on Dr Rudd’s future as Australia’s lead diplomat in Washington, after he was forced to delete social media comments critical of Mr Trump.

“Out of respect for the office of President of the United States, and following the election of President Trump, Ambassador Rudd has now removed these past commentaries from his personal website and social media channels,” a statement issued by Dr Rudd’s office in November said.

“This has been done to eliminate the possibility of such comments being misconstrued as reflecting his positions as ambassador and, by extension, the views of the Australian Government.”

Earlier this year, Mr Trump said Dr Rudd was clearly “not the brightest bulb” but that he didn’t know much about him, after being informed by UK politician Nigel Farage in an interview of some of the Australian’s previous criticisms.

“If he is at all hostile he will not be there long,” Mr Trump said.