Australia and the European Union set the direction for future relations

I am pleased to announce that the European Commissioner for External Relations, Dr Benita Ferrero-Waldner, and I have today agreed to a Joint Statement that launches the future direction of bilateral cooperation between Australia and the European Union.

The Joint Statement comes on the eve of the tenth anniversary of the original Joint Declaration on relations between the European Union and Australia, a document that formalised our commitment to enhanced cooperation across a wide-ranging agenda. Agreement on a new partnership framework to shape our future direction will be concluded by mid 2008 - at its heart will be our shared commitment to freedom and democratic values.

The new framework will strengthen our commitment through collaborative, practical and action-oriented activities which support our mutual interests. The key areas of focus will be:

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.

At our meeting today, it was also agreed to establish a regular forum 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. 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.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555