Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been practicing beer diplomacy during his visit to New York and London, pouring schooners after his United Nations address and taking brews to dinner with the UK PM.

Albanese is well-known for his love of Australian craft beer and proudly launched the Inner West Ale Trail in his electorate of Grayndler last year.

So it’s hardly surprising that he followed his United Nations address in New York City with a visit to Aussie expat bar Old Mates – which is backed by Hugh Jackman, Andy Lee, Hamish Blake – where he poured beers for patrons.

‘This is a great venue, I promised to come here when I did Andy Lee’s show,” Albanese said. 

“Have a great night. It’s been a really proud occasion as an Australia’s Prime Minister to be here to talk to the United Nations tonight. 

“It’s also really fun to be with you tonight. Thank you to this amazing bar, Australians know how to have fun!”

Old Mates serves Aussie beers including Bondi Lager, Balter XPA and Coopers.

Following his visit to Old Mates pub, Albanese headed to London, where he took a BYO four-pack of Willie the Boatman beers to dinner at 10 Downing Street, the UK prime minister’s official residence.

The reception hosted by Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday night was attended by Albanese’s fiancée Jodie Haydon, Lady Victoria Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Diana Fox Carney, and Iceland Prime Minister Kristrun Frostadottir.

When asked why he was bringing his own beers, Albanese told reporters “we’re polite guests”.

Willie the Boatman’s Albo beer was released as a limited-edition brew in 2022. The Pale Ale, which features an image of Albanese in the 80s on the can, has gone on to become a fan favourite and permanent release.