Canberra, Australia – British Sikh MP Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, representing Slough and serving as a member of the UK House of Commons Defence Select Committee, has concluded a series of high-level meetings across Australia, aimed at enhancing defense cooperation between the two nations.
During his back-to-back engagements in Canberra, Adelaide, and Perth, Dhesi met with Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament, state premiers, cabinet ministers, industry leaders, and defense experts. The discussions focused on the AUKUS security pact—a trilateral agreement between the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States—which is designed to bolster regional stability and defense capabilities through collaboration on nuclear-powered submarines and advanced technologies.
Dhesi and his delegation also visited submarine construction facilities, closely examining progress on AUKUS-related projects and the technological innovation driving Australia’s shipbuilding sector. He emphasised the importance of maintaining strong strategic ties and mutual trust between the UK and Australia, noting that defence cooperation not only strengthens security but also deepens shared democratic values.
In a statement on social media, Dhesi wrote:
“Back-to-back meetings for @CommonsDefence across #Australia, including in #Canberra, #Adelaide, and #Perth—with Deputy PM, Speaker, Premier, Ministers, industry leaders, experts, and others. Viewed submarine building, examined progress on #AUKUS and seriously strengthened 🇬🇧🇦🇺 ties.”
Dhesi’s visit underlines Britain’s ongoing commitment to global defence partnerships and its intent to play a pivotal role in Indo-Pacific security through trusted alliances such as AUKUS.