Labor Leaders Address Shared Challenges at International Conference
Keir Starmer, leader of the UK Labour Party, adn Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese participated in a joint appearance at a left-wing political conference, alongside Iceland’s Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir.The event highlighted recent center-left election victories in Australia and Canada as models for progressive parties.
Starmer, currently facing political pressure in the UK wiht lagging poll numbers and the rise of the far-right Reform UK party led by Nigel farage, announced a new policy proposal during the conference: a digital identification card for all working-age adults in the UK. He framed the policy as a response to public concerns regarding migration, a key issue being campaigned on by Reform UK.
“I know working people are worried about the level of illegal migration into this country. A secure border and controlled migration are reasonable demands, and this government is listening and delivering,” Starmer stated. He also urged progressive politicians to actively challenge what he described as “lies” propagated by populist movements,stating,”Now is the time for social democrats to confront directly some of the challenges and some of the lies,frankly,that have taken root in our societies.”
Albanese, when questioned about whether Australia’s immigration and economic policies were effectively countering the far-right, responded that Australia maintains “a strong position.” He criticized opposing parties for focusing on “grievance without putting up any solutions” during the last election campaign.
The conference also touched upon the ongoing conflict in the Middle east.Albanese revealed he met with former UK Labour Prime minister Tony Blair in London, receiving a briefing on Blair’s discussions related to the situation. Blair has been discussed as a potential leader for a transitional authority in Gaza, an idea supported by the White House, though not yet confirmed. Albanese praised blair’s history of seeking solutions and his long-term involvement in Middle East issues,stating blair “always plays a constructive role.”
Albanese affirmed continued support for the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the UK, and Canada, stating it remains “in the interests of all three nations.”
Australia, the UK, and Canada have also recently recognized Palestinian Statehood at the United Nations.
