Source: European Commission Press Office
On 8 August, Federica
Mogherini visited Australia for the first time in her capacity as High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of
the European Commission. While in Sydney, she met with Julie Bishop, Foreign Minister of Australia. They discussed bilateral issues, such as the recently launched negotiations on a comprehensive
trade agreement and the progress made in implementing the EU-Australia Framework Agreement
signed in 2017. They
looked at the positive impact the cooperation between the EU and Australia has, with a view to protecting and strengthening the international rules-based order, multilateralism and open global
trade.
Australia confirmed that it will deploy civilian expertise to EU-led crisis response and capacity building missions in third countries of common interest, under the EU’s Common Security and
Defence Policy. They agreed to continue strengthening security coordination and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, including through development cooperation.
Minister Bishop emphasised that the EU’s presence and development programs in the region are significantly improving the quality of peoples’ lives through sustainable social and economic
development. They also discussed ways to further enhance collaboration in combating terrorism, strengthen cooperation on cyber issues, as well as global challenges, such as climate change and
migration.
The High Representative/Vice-President and the Foreign Minister
spoke to the press after
their meeting and issued a
joint press release. Federica
Mogherini also met with Sir Peter Cosgrove, Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, and delivered an
opening speech at the
Europe-Australia Business Council. For more information on EU-Australia relations, consult the
factsheet or visit the
website of the EU delegation to Australia.
