With the signing of the EU-Australia Framework Agreement in Manila this month, Australia is a step closer to achieving a free trade agreement with one of its largest trading partners.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop and High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Federica Mogherini met on the sidelines of the ASEAN forum in the Philippines to sign the EU-Australia Framework Agreement. The agreement provides an institutional framework for cooperation between Australia and the EU and its member states on issues including counter terrorism, human rights and trade.

Following the signing of the agreement, Chair of the European Australian Business Council Nick Greiner spoke with AIIA Director of  Communications Annabel McGilvray about what it will mean for Australia-EU relations and negotiations for the forthcoming EU-Australia free trade agreement.

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The Hon Nick Greiner AC is chairman of the European Australia Business Council and former Premier Treasurer of New South Wales. He is a member of the steering committee for the EU-Australia Leadership Forum for which the Australian Institute of International Affairs is part of the organising consortium.

Interview by AIIA Director of Communications Annabel McGilvray

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