Albanese agrees to formal talks on Australia-EU security agreement
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The news: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has agreed to launch formal negotiations on a security and defence pact with the European Union, marking a significant step towards deepening strategic ties amid a worsening geopolitical climate.
The context: Albanese announced that he had met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Canada, agreeing to start negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership with the EU.
The deal will provide a framework for current and future cooperation including in areas such as defence industry, cyber and counter-terrorism.
The agreement will not have military deployment obligations for either side but it is expected to open the door to significantly more joint defence procurement opportunities.
Albanese also said that the discussions included "renewed engagement" on the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, which had been stalled for some time up until recent months.
What they said: "I am pleased to announce we’re stepping up our cooperation with the European Union today," Albanese said.
"We see how deeply connected Europe’s security and the Indo-Pacific region have become.
“I very much welcome the EU’s offer for a Security and Defence Partnership and Australia will warmly take it up and commence work immediately.
“This will open the door to joint defence procurement opportunities and will benefit both our industries and our security.“At a time of global uncertainty, it is our collective responsibility to work together to uphold peace, security and economic prosperity.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said: “In a time of rising tensions and strategic competition, trusted partners must stand together."
“Europe and Australia’s enduring friendship enters a new chapter today."
President of the European Council Antonio Costa said: “Australia is an important partner for the European Union.
“We share the same values and a strong commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based global order.“Europe’s and the Indo-Pacific’s regions are connected.
“Opening negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership opens new opportunities to further strengthen our cooperation.”
The source: Prime Minister's Office media release
