The Rose Garden, now paved to prevent stiletto heels from sinking into its grass during gatherings, has become a scene of lively exchanges. Reporters eagerly toss questions across the room in the Oval Office, seeking clarity on critical issues such as defense, trade, and tariffs.

At a crucial juncture, Australia’s offerings to the U.S. stand to significantly enhance the American economy. This collaboration comes as a countermeasure to China’s dominance over critical minerals essential for emerging technologies. Additionally, it aims to reinforce regional security in the Indo-Pacific, especially as China continues to amass military strength.

In the end, steadying an alliance that dates back over 100 years will all come down to how these two very different personalities from opposite sides of the political spectrum are able to gel.

Donald Trump’s purchase of gold-plated coasters emblazoned with his name for the Oval Office was announced earlier this year, with a White House spokesperson saying the Republican president had personally paid for them. Source: Getty / Chip Somodevilla

The optics in the room will be forensically scrutinised.

If Albanese is offered a drink while he’s taking part in this first one-on-one discussion with the president, he will likely rest the glass on a TRUMP-branded golden coaster.