Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd will be Australia’s next ambassador to the United States of America.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced Mr Rudd’s appointment at a press conference in Canberra.
“Rudd brings unmatched experience to the role,”
they said in a joint statement.
“He has served as prime minister, foreign minister, held prominent academic roles and worked extensively in the United States.”
Mr Rudd in a written statement said, “I am greatly honoured by the Australian government’s decision to appoint me as next Ambassador to the United States of America commencing in March.”
Political commentators’ opinions are divided on the development as Mr Rudd is seen as “someone close to China.”
Mr Rudd is expected to begin his new role in early March 2023.