Australia and the European Union: Trends and Current Synergies

Abstract

Australia’s relationship with the European Union (EU) has reached a milestone. With the multi-faceted Framework Agreement (FA) signed in 2017, the bilateral relationship has moved to a treaty level engagement and offers opportunities to strengthen EU-Australia actions and interests on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues. Significant challenges place the relationship at a critical juncture. Faced with the changing strategic priorities and interest of the United States’ (US) international role; the continued rise of China; and increasing regional and global instability, Australia and the EU have the opportunity to enhance their cooperation to tackle these and other challenges. In addit..