The Prime Minister took off from Sydney Airport on a flight to the United States to meet with President Joe Biden.

Mr Morrison boarded a Royal Australian Airforce plane at Sydney Airport on Monday morning ahead of the summit, where he will discuss the COVID-19 pandemic, the climate crisis and emerging technologies.

Before boarding, Scott Morrison made a few brief remarks about the visit – his first since President Biden took office.

“There is no more important responsibility of a prime minister or a federal government than ensuring the safety of Australians,” said Mr Morrison.

“We have worked together for many years to address the threat of terrorism here on our own coasts, working with partners around the world.

“In an increasingly uncertain world, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of Australians, and we are able to ensure that we can pursue our national interests and the peace and stability of our region.

“Since taking office, we have lifted the Australian defense effort; we’ve raised it from a point lower than it was before WWII to over 2% of our national GDP – the size of our economy.

“By doing this we have sent a very clear message – that Australia will always look to others, but we will never have to leave it to others.

“That we can sit down at the table with our partners and friends to create a safer and more stable world, especially here in the Indo-Pacific.

Mr. Morrison said he looks forward to having these engagements with other Quad members.