The EU and Australia have signed a Partnership Agreement on Security and Defense
The European Union and Australia have announced the conclusion of a Partnership Agreement on Security and Defense.
This was reported by the European Commission’s press service.
“Although the EU and Australia are geographically distant from one another, we are close in terms of how we view the world... We are sending a clear signal to the rest of the world that friendship and cooperation are paramount in times of instability,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who visited Australia for the signing.
Although the EU and Australia are already allies and partners united in defending multilateralism and a rules-based international order, a deeper partnership is particularly relevant given the interconnection between security in Europe and the strategically important Indo-Pacific region.
Security and defense dialogues will enable closer coordination of strategic priorities, translating shared values and interests into practical cooperation. Work on crisis management and Common Security and Defense Policy operations, including training and exercises, will be strengthened.
Cooperation will also be expanded in the areas of maritime security, cybersecurity, countering hybrid threats and disinformation, reflecting the evolving nature of modern security challenges.
The EU and Australia will coordinate activities on new technologies, including artificial intelligence and space security, as well as on nuclear non-proliferation and the exchange of situational awareness information across different regions.
Both sides will support capacity building for partners, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, and strengthen coordination in multilateral and regional forums.
