EU Australia New Deal
- July 10th, 2007
- Posted by EUEditor
Relations between Australia and the European Union are to be revised in a new agreement on their relationship, in 2008.
It was outlined during the recent visit to Australia by the European Commissioner for External Relations, Benita Ferrero-Waldner (25.6.07).
Key areas:
- a comprehensive approach to promoting global security;
- a commitment to the multilateral trading system, as well as a strong desire to expand bilateral trade and investment;
- strengthened coordination in the Asia-Pacific region;
- recognition of the increased global focus on the environment and energy; and
- expansion of our cooperation in the fields of science, technology, education and training.
A Youth Interfaith Forum comprising young leaders of the diverse religious communities in South East Asia, Australia and Europe will be supported by Australia and the European Union.
The Australian Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, said a regular forum would be set up at officials level on energy security and climate, including forests.
“The EU is our largest trading partner and our largest source of foreign direct investment,” he said.
“Alongside these strong commercial links, we aim to expand our rich network of historical and contemporary connections and diversify our already wide-ranging political dialogue to keep pace with the rapidly changing international environment.”
The new document will replace an existing Partnership Agreement now ten years old.
Reference: Joint Statement by Dr Ferrero-Waldner and Mr Downer, http://www.foreignminister.gov.au/releases/2007/Joint_Statement.pdf (10.7.07)