The European Union (EU) has expressed interest in establishing a robust security pact with Australia, a development that may signify a strategic shift in international relationships. This proposition came to light as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese participated in a series of high-profile meetings with global leaders in Rome, including a brief exchange with Pope Leo XIV following the inauguration mass of the pontiff.

During his visit to the Italian capital, Albanese had a significant dialogue with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission. Their discussions centered around the potential for Australia to play a constructive role in what they termed ‘today’s uncertain world.’ Prior to their meeting, von der Leyen emphasized the EU’s desire to enhance their strategic partnership, particularly in the realms of defense and security. She articulated, “We are predictable, we share the same values as you just said. So we can offer to each other stability and we’re very grateful for that.” This indicates a mutual recognition of the importance of collaboration in maintaining security and stability.

Von der Leyen further elaborated on the EU's interest in expanding their strategic partnership with Australia, stating, “We would be very pleased if we could develop such a security and defense partnership too, just to broaden the strategic partnership in many topics that we have in common.” Her statements reflect a broader EU strategy to strengthen alliances with countries that share similar democratic values and security interests.

Prime Minister Albanese, while cautious, acknowledged the proposal, indicating a willingness to explore the possibilities of military exercises and cooperation in areas of mutual interest. He stated, “We said that we were certainly interested in any further engagement of support. But it’s very early stages at this point.” This suggests a recognition of the importance of ongoing dialogue, with Albanese hinting at the possibility of further discussions either within NATO frameworks or through direct bilateral talks between Australia and the EU.

In a related development, Albanese reiterated Australia’s unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression during a separate meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He emphasized Australia’s readiness to consider sending peacekeeping troops as part of a coalition of willing nations, contingent upon the emergence of a viable peace process.

While in Rome, Albanese also engaged with other global leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who had gathered for the inauguration mass at the Vatican. Notably, Albanese remarked that he had not arranged to meet with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who arrived “quite late” to the ceremony.

During his visit to the Vatican, Albanese had the opportunity to speak with Pope Leo XIV about his mother, a conversation that held personal significance for the Prime Minister. He shared with the media, “I spoke to him about my mother who would be, I’m sure, looking down from Heaven with the biggest smile she’s every had.” This personal touch illustrates the Prime Minister’s deep-rooted values and the influence of his upbringing, as he often reflects on his single-parent mother and her impact on his life.

Amid these diplomatic engagements, Australia is also actively pursuing a free-trade agreement with the EU, a negotiation that remains unresolved. Federal frontbencher Tanya Plibersek acknowledged the existence of several “sticking points” in the discussions, particularly regarding the EU’s desire to restrict the use of certain food names, including parmesan, fetta, and prosecco, which are tied to their geographic origins. She stated on the Seven’s Sunrise program, “But we would say that the parmesan made in Australia is world’s best and we want to make sure that any free-trade agreement with the European Union is a clear advantage for Australia. We’ll continue to work through it.”

Securing a trade agreement with the EU could unlock significant opportunities for Australian goods and services in a market of over 400 million people. In the fiscal year 2022/2023, the EU emerged as Australia’s third-largest two-way trading partner, sixth-largest export destination, and third-largest services export market, with two-way trade valued at approximately $110 billion.