President von der Leyen became the first woman leader in Australian history to address a joint sitting of Parliament in Canberra, describing a more uncertain and challenging global environment and stressing the importance of stronger cooperation with like-minded partners.

She said: “The world we live in is brutal, harsh and unforgiving. It feels upside down. What we knew as certainties are in question... Against this backdrop, my visit is not a symbolic trip. What we sign today will unleash a new era of economic and security partnership.”

President von der Leyen also visited Garden Island Defence Precinct, Sydney's major naval base, where she reinforced the global importance of the Indo-Pacific region. She claimed that the newly formed partnership would bolster the defence industry through manufacturing, scale and innovation, allowing for combined military exercises on land and sea.

Accompanied by Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maroš Šefčovič, the President held bilateral meetings with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese encompassing security, trade, critical minerals and regional stability. She also paid tribute at the Australian War Memorial, honouring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witnessing the Last Post Ceremony

The President also reflected on the deepening partnership: “Europe and Australia share the same vision of the world – even though worlds apart. We believe in the same values. We know we can always trust each other. And we act in unison, side by side. Because progress is forged by the choices we make, and the courage to make them together.”

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

ICYMI Australian News: Nearly Half Of Australians Anticipate Military Threat Within Five Years