Scott Morrison has joked with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson about Australia's nail-biting loss in the third Ashes Test during their first meeting as leaders.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
"Congratulations on the Ashes," the prime minister told Mr Johnson when they met for formal talks on the sidelines of the G7 in Biarritz, France.
"Well, we've got two to go. We're not taking anything for granted," Mr Johnson replied.
The pair agreed it was "a hell of a game" of cricket.
In the jovial first encounter between the two men as leaders, Mr Johnson also laughed as he asked the Australian if he was "enjoying this thing so far."
Australia is only an invited guest at the G7, which comprises the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the United States, Canada and Japan.
"It's different being an observer on these things ... It's a good opportunity to see everybody," Mr Morrison told him.
They moved on to meatier matters once the doors closed, covering a post-Brexit trade deal, Australia's plans to join the UK and US in military operations in the waters south of Iran and other strategic issues.
"You guys are going to be joining the maritime operations," Mr Johnson said in reference to the Straits of Hormuz.
"Yeah, absolutely. I met with the United States yesterday. That's all come together, we've got a lot to do," Mr Morrison replied.
Later, Mr Morrison said the UK was "very appreciative" of Australia's participation in the operation.
"Our involvement lines up with the UK's involvement," he told AAP.
"It's based on a point of principle and we respect it."
A Downing Street spokesman said there was joint enthusiasm for an "enhanced and deep trading relationship" after the UK leaves the European Union, which is slated for the end of October.
Mr Morrison said Australia was keen to conclude a deal in the nation's best interests.
"There is a lot of low hanging fruit we can move very quickly on," he told AAP.
"I was encouraged by the prime minister's confidence in being able to work through the Brexit process; when they do we will be there."
Mr Johnson also set out the increased British diplomatic presence in the Pacific, which Mr Morrison welcomed.
"The two leaders were concerned about the current situation in Hong Kong and agreed it was paramount for all sides to remain calm and peaceful and to maintain Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy as guaranteed by the legally binding joint declaration," the spokesman said.
Australian Associated Press
