Without directly referencing the devastation of the Israel-Hamas war, the first lady announced Tuesday that "we’ve made a few adjustments to the entertainment portion” of the dinner.
Albanese is the fourth world leader to be honored with a state visit during Biden's term, after the leaders of France, South Korea and India.
Hundreds of lawmakers, business titans and celebrities are typically invited to state dinners, but the White House keeps the guest list secret until just before people start arriving for the black-tie affair.
The dinner program, including an exchange of toasts, will unfold in a temporary pavilion being built on the White House lawn.
The White House said postponing was not an option, casting Albanese's visit as part of the important diplomatic balancing act that a president must undertake with U.S. allies worldwide.
Persons:
Jill Biden, we’ve, Anthony Albanese, Katie Button, Joe Biden, Albanese, Biden, Karine Jean, Pierre, “, John Kirby, ” Albanese, Jodie Haydon
Organizations:
WASHINGTON, White House, Army and Air Force, Australian, House, Washington, Republican, White, Press, Biden, National Security Council
Locations:
Israel, Asheville , North Carolina, Australia, France, South Korea, India, Washington, United States