- The Hon Pat Conroy MP, Minister for Defence Industry, Minister for International Development & the Pacific
This week we welcome HRH Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Daniel and Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell of Sweden to Australia.
Our warm and productive relationship is underpinned by shared values, substantial two-way trade and investment ties, and a commitment to the rules-based international order.
During our meetings with Their Royal Highnesses and Trade Minister Forssell, we will discuss our approaches to supporting developing countries across the Indo-Pacific, including opportunities for collaboration and leadership on climate change.
We will also discuss the growing trade and investment opportunities between our two countries, including in the renewable energy, mining and resources, manufacturing and defence sectors.
Sweden currently holds the six-month Presidency of the Council of the European Union. We will reaffirm the objective of concluding negotiations on an ambitious and comprehensive trade agreement between Australia and the European Union by mid-year.
We will continue our advocacy for new, commercially-meaningful market access for Australia’s agricultural products, which will be essential to conclude a deal.
We will also discuss our shared interests in responding to economic coercion and enhancing the rules-based international order to create a safer, fairer, and more sustainable world.
Quote attributable to Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell:
“Creating new access and investment opportunities through a trade deal with the European Union is a key element of the Albanese Government’s trade diversification strategy.”
“I look forward to meeting my Swedish counterpart to discuss steps required to substantively conclude trade negotiations during Sweden’s Presidency of the Council of the EU.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Defence Industry and Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:
“Australia is committed to an effective, targeted, and generous development program, and to being a leader in the global fight against climate change, which represents the largest threat to the future of our region. We especially value working with friends and partners like Sweden and the European Union on our shared priorities in the Indo Pacific and beyond.”
“As a like-minded, technologically capable partner, welcome Sweden’s substantial and positive contribution to Australian defence capability.”
