Australia’s online spy agency will join Microsoft to build a “cyber shield” to protect networks from security threats as part of a $5 billion investment by the tech giant in local projects.
Ahead of Albanese’s arrival, current and former officials called for attempts to step up progress on the long-awaited AUKUS security pact amid concerns the submarine deal could be put on the back-burner once Americans enter an election year in 2024.“I think one of the messages the prime minister will convey is that a lot of our decisions hinge on being able to get this legislation through,” said former US ambassador Arthur Sinodinos, who now works for the business advisory firm The Asia Group.
In brief remarks after his arrival, Albanese said he wanted the visit to turn the AUKUS agreement into reality, build closer economic ties and take the next step on his agreement with Biden to expand the supply of critical minerals for advanced technology products and renewable energy. US ambassador Kevin Rudd and his wife Therese Rein greet Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon at Joint Base Andrews.The Microsoft investment comes at a time of increasing collaboration between Australia and the US on security, driven in part by concern among the Five Eyes security allies about relying too heavily on technology from China.named China as a source of concern