Shaping future EU-Australia relations
The EU's foreign policy chief made the remarks at the EU-Australia Leadership Forum, which brought together 150+ policymakers, business leaders, young professionals, innovators, educators and media in Brussels 18-22 November. Together they worked to brainstorm new ideas and identify policy recommendations in key areas of the bilateral relationship.
The prestigious event comes at a pivotal time for EU-Australia relations. The EU is the largest investor in Australia; its largest trade partner in services and second largest destination for Australian investment. This cooperation is set to grow through the new EU-Australia Framework Agreement and the Free Trade Agreement under negotiation.
EU Ambassador to Australia Michael Pulch said the forum enables a broader group of leaders to engage and shape the EU-Australia relationship.
Australia's Ambassador to the EU Justin Brown described the discussions as 'innovative and timely,' as the 2nd round of FTA negotiations were underway in Canberra.
Emerging leader and economist Martin Foo said the forum allows emerging leaders to participate in and inform the debate on vital issues that affect all European and Australian citizens. "Like globalisation, migration, and declining job security.”
Water engineer Alison Prior was keen to share her own insights into the EU water and space sectors. "I met others who are passionate about enhancing relations between Australia and the EU and forging links for innovation," the young founder of the professional network, Women & Water says.
More info
Media release here.
Meet the Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee here.
Watch Federica Mogherini's address below.