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–
Expert comment on Australian-European relations –
Professor Bruce Wilson, Director of the European Union Centre at RMIT
University, is available for interview on Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s attendance at
the Asia-Europe meeting and the proposal for a Treaty with the European Union.
“The Prime Minister’s attendance at ASEM is a significant milestone in recognition
of Australia’s potential contribution to strengthening relationships amongst
European and Asian nations,” Professor Wilson said.
“From an Australian perspective, ASEM opens access to dialogue with leaders of
countries with 60 per cent of the world’s population, and 60 per cent of world trade.
“Prime Minister Gillard’s call for a Treaty with Europe not only makes good sense
politically, it can have important implications for enhancing Australia’s interests
“Europe continues to be Australia’s most important trading partner and confirming
the foundations of a continuing relationship would only strengthen these ties.
“It is estimated about 2,300 European companies operate in Australia, directly
employing some 400,000 Australians.
“Since October 2008, Australia and the EU have shared a number of common
goals, articulated in the European Union-Australia Partnership Framework.
“This addressed core issues of government policy related to foreign affairs and
security, trade, climate change, science and education, and the Asia-Pacific region,
and outlined a number of actions to be implemented immediately.
“The call for development of a Treaty enhances the status of the key initiatives
foreshadowed in the Partnership Agreement, and puts into perspective Trade
Minister Craig Emerson’s comments on Europe’s apparent ‘green’ protectionism’.
“It would be wrong to construe Europe’s policies on social and environmental
standards as simply an attempt to reimpose trade barriers.
“A commitment to rights and values was a key element of the Treaty of Lisbon,
adopted by the European Union last year.
“Its Charter of Rights guarantees certain civil, political, economic and social rights,
while other clauses of the Treaty improve the EU’s ability to act in several policy
areas of major priority – including energy policy and climate change.”
The European Union Centre at RMIT is funded through a grant from the European
Union and RMIT University.
For interviews: RMIT University’s Professor Bruce Wilson, 0414 236 765.
For general media enquiries: RMIT University Communications, Gosia
Kaszubska, (03) 9925 3176 or 0417 510 735.
6
October, 2010
NEWS 
