Today, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to begin negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership (SDP) during the G7 Leaders Summit in Alberta, Canada.

This Partnership will establish a framework for ongoing and future collaboration in areas such as defence industry, cyber security, and counter-terrorism. Existing SDPs that the EU has with other nations encompass cooperation on cyber security, countering hybrid threats, maritime security, non-proliferation, disarmament, space, and economic security.

The SDP aims to enhance cooperation on global security challenges without imposing military deployment obligations.

The discussions regarding the SDP alongside renewed efforts to finalize an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement highlight the strong momentum in the Australian-European relationship.

Negotiations for the SDP will remain distinct from the ongoing efforts to finalize the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, which we are prioritizing for Australias national interest.

Quotes from Prime Minister Albanese:

“I am pleased to announce our enhanced cooperation with the European Union today.

“We recognize the deepening connection between Europes security and the Indo-Pacific region.

“I warmly welcome the EUs offer for a Security and Defence Partnership, and Australia will begin work immediately.

“This will pave the way for joint defence procurement opportunities, benefiting both our industries and our security.

“In times of global uncertainty, we share the responsibility to uphold peace, security, and economic prosperity.

“That is my ongoing commitment, and it has been a key takeaway from our discussions at the G7 today.”

Quotes from President von der Leyen:

“In these times of rising tensions and strategic competition, trusted partners must stand united.

“Today marks a new chapter in the enduring friendship between Europe and Australia.

“Acknowledging the shared security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific, we are initiating discussions on a Security and Defence Partnership.

“We are also dedicated to advancing free trade negotiations—economic security is vital too.”

Quotes from President Costa:

“Australia is a significant partner for the European Union.

“We share common values and a strong commitment to multilateralism and the rules-based global order.

“The regions of Europe and the Indo-Pacific are interconnected.

“Beginning negotiations on a Security and Defence Partnership creates new opportunities to enhance our cooperation.”