“The EU and Australia have today announced the adoption of a groundbreaking Security and Defence Partnership. They have also concluded negotiations for an ambitious and balanced free trade agreement (FTA) and agreed to launch formal negotiations for the association of Australia to Horizon Europe, the world’s largest funding programme for research and innovation. With these steps, the EU and Australia are delivering mutually beneficial outcomes and further reinforcing their already close relations in a time of geopolitical uncertainty.”
“As the interconnection between security in Europe and the strategically important Indo-Pacific region becomes clearer, the value of deeper partnership is abundantly clear for both sides.”
“EU exports are expected to grow by up to 33% over the next decade, with export value reaching up to €17.7 billion annually. Key sectors with strong growth potential include dairy (expected to increase by up to 48%) motor vehicles (52%), and chemicals (20%). EU investment into Australia has the potential to grow by over 87%.”
“Following recently concluded deals with Indonesia and India, this agreement further diversifies the EU’s network of trade partners in the strategically important Indo-Pacific region and strengthens Europe’s position on the global stage.”
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_26_645