APIA, Samoa — Australia and the United Kingdom have enhanced their relationship through a new agreement aimed at addressing climate change and energy projects, with both nations setting the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2050. Additionally, they reaffirmed their partnership under the AUKUS treaty to develop nuclear submarines. This collaborative effort was unveiled following discussions between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer during the Commonwealth leaders’ summit in Samoa on Friday.

The newly formed Climate and Energy Partnership prioritizes the swift advancement of renewable energy technologies, such as green hydrogen and offshore wind energy, by fostering an exchange of technological innovations. Albanese emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This partnership will ensure we maximize the economic potential of the net zero transition, and build on our long-standing cooperation on international climate action, and shared commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050.” However, the announcement contained few concrete plans for implementation, which may not ease worries among Pacific Island leaders. These leaders, representing low-lying nations at significant risk from rising sea levels, urged both Australia and the U.K. to take stronger measures against climate change after expressing their concerns on Thursday.

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), overseen by Samoan Prime Minister Fiam? Naomi Mata?afa, is anticipated to culminate in a robust statement regarding climate action, paving the way for the upcoming UN climate summit scheduled for November. Security also emerged as a focal point during the initial meeting between these two progressive leaders, as discussions touched upon defense strategies, the conflict in Ukraine, the AUKUS security alliance, and pertinent issues in the Indo-Pacific region, as indicated in a joint statement provided by the Prime Ministers.

Starmer remarked, “Together, we’re delivering better futures for our two countries, whether that’s through protecting our national security with projects like AUKUS or delivering on our net zero commitments.” Notably, King Charles III is anticipated to make an appearance, marking his first CHOGM as monarch, and is expected to address the assembly as leaders gather to address these pressing global issues.