Australia to engage in negotiations for potential defense agreement with European Union

Australia is set to begin formal talks regarding a potential new defense agreement with the European Union during this week’s G7 summit in Canada. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will use the opportunity to discuss enhanced security cooperation with the EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa. The talks will explore a partnership in security and defense, including military exercises and cooperation in areas such as foreign interference, cybersecurity, and counter-terrorism. Despite initial wariness, the discussions gained momentum after the EU’s envoy to Australia confirmed the ongoing negotiations in Brussels. The agreement could be similar to those previously reached with Japan, South Korea, and the UK. Both Australia and the EU are facing calls to increase their defense spending, particularly from the US President Donald Trump, who has raised concerns about contributions to NATO.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jun/16/australia-to-hold-talks-aimed-at-entering-defence-pact-with-eu