CANBERRA, ACT, March 24 -- The Prime Minister of Australia issued the following media release:
The Prime Minister of Australia, the Honourable Anthony Albanese MP, and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, reaffirmed the strength of the partnership between Australia and the European Union, underpinned by shared democratic values, respect for international law, and people to people, economic, scientific and strategic links. They emphasised that Australia and the European Union are trusted friends, working together to address economic resilience, security, climate change and environmental challenges.
Prime Minister Albanese and President von der Leyen welcomed the conclusion of negotiations on the Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement in Canberra on 24 March 2026, and will now take forward their respective domestic processes required for signature and entry into force. This agreement will strengthen bilateral trade and investment, support economic growth, and reinforce the shared commitment of Australia and the European Union to open and rules-based trade.
Prime Minister Albanese and President von der Leyen also welcomed the conclusion of the Australia-European Union Security and Defence Partnership, providing a framework for enhanced cooperation on shared security challenges, including defence industry cooperation, cyber and economic security, and counterterrorism. The partnership will strengthen shared resilience and deepen practical collaboration, building on existing ties between Australian and European industries and institutions.
Prime Minister Albanese and President von der Leyen reaffirmed the importance of international research and innovation cooperation and welcomed Australia's intention to commence negotiations with a view to associating from 2027 to Horizon Europe, the European Union's flagship research and innovation programme. Cooperation under Horizon Europe would support collaboration on shared priorities, including critical and emerging technologies and climate and energy research, creating opportunities for Australian and European research and benefits for each economy.
These pillars of cooperation recognise the value of a strong Australia-European Union partnership in addressing shared global challenges and supporting prosperity and security and allow for deepened engagement between Australia and the European Union.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
