On 2nd May 2024, ahead of her departure for Australia and New Zealand, Foreign Minister Baerbock issued a statement emphasizing the importance of close democratic partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
Baerbock stated, “When storm clouds gather in world politics, it is good to be able to rely on close friends and to stand together. With Australia and New Zealand, we are fortunate to have two close democratic partners in the Indo-Pacific with whom we share the same worldview.”
She highlighted the commitment of these nations to the European peace order, their support for Ukraine, and their stance against those who trample on international rules. She also noted the challenges posed by China’s increasingly assertive stance.
Baerbock stressed the interdependence of security in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, stating, “If the international peace order comes under pressure on one side of the world, it will also crumble on the other side.”
She acknowledged Australia and New Zealand’s experience in dealing with an authoritarian neighbour and expressed the need for closer security policy cooperation with Australia. She also mentioned the potential in green hydrogen and raw materials and the importance of repatriating indigenous cultural heritage objects.
Baerbock marked the beginning of a new economic era between New Zealand and Europe with the enforcement of the EU’s new free trade agreement with New Zealand. She described it as the new gold standard for free trade agreements, with a greater focus on sustainability and an indigenous rights chapter.
She concluded by emphasizing the need to further strengthen and deepen Europe’s friendships with Australia and New Zealand, especially in these turbulent times.
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