Reported at www.abc.net.au: Marco Rubio, nominated as secretary of state in the incoming Trump administration, has expressed strong support for the AUKUS submarine deal, reassuring Australia about the future of the pact.

He described AUKUS as a “blueprint” for international collaboration to address global challenges, with particular focus on defense cooperation.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed Rubio’s comments, highlighting the broad support for AUKUS across the U.S. Congress and assurance of continued backing from the new administration.