Indigenous representatives have cautioned that educational institutions may face closure if a proposed funding reduction in the 2026 budget is approved.
Former Australian Prime Minister to Address US Panel on China
Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison is set to testify before a US House committee next week regarding efforts to counter economic pressure from China. The hearing will also feature Rahm Emanuel, former US ambassador to Japan.
Tensions between Australia and China worsened after Australia excluded Huawei from its 5G network in 2018. Relations further deteriorated in 2020 when Morrison sought an independent inquiry into Covid-19’s origins. In response, China imposed trade restrictions on Australian goods such as wine, barley, beef, coal, and grapes—actions the US labeled as economic coercion.
Morrison lost his reelection bid in 2022. His successor, Anthony Albanese, recently visited China, signaling improving diplomatic ties.
Japan Seeks Tariff Agreement with US Ahead of Deadline
Japan’s chief tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, stated he will travel to Washington next week for further discussions with US officials. The talks aim to prevent the enforcement of a 25% tariff on Japanese exports by August 1.
Akazawa emphasized securing a mutually beneficial deal while protecting Japan’s interests. He met with a US delegation led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Osaka but did not discuss tariffs.
Legal Action Filed Over Epstein-Related Claims
Donald Trump has initiated a defamation lawsuit against Rupert Murdoch, the *Wall Street Journal*, and two reporters over a report alleging he sent Jeffrey Epstein inappropriate material in 2003. The lawsuit, seeking over $10 billion in damages, was filed in Florida federal court.
The disputed article referenced a birthday message Trump allegedly contributed to an album organized by Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently imprisoned for sex trafficking.
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