“Wow that’s a big crowd today” Donald Trump quipped as TV cameras and journalists forced their way into the crowded Cabinet room of the White House.

Seated next to his guest Anthony Albanese, the President added: “We must have the Prime Minister of Australia here today!”

The meeting had been billed to take place in the Oval Office, but at the last minute was moved to the Cabinet Room. The disappointment at being denied entry to the world’s most famous and now televised office quickly subsided as the doors opened to the Cabinet Room.

Around two dozen reporters and camera operators squashed in together shoulder-to-shoulder on the opposite side of the table where the other Australian dignitaries were seated, facing the leaders.

And so began a 35-minute spectacle broadcast live around the

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