Australia and the EU in the multilateral round: defining the common ground

Abstract

[Conclusion]: There is much in common between the EU and Australia in the multilateral round. In fact we agree on far more issues than we disagree on. Indeed we are both deeply committed to an open and transparent multilateral trading system – in which all WTO members can participate and from which all can benefit. We have common interests in mobilising support for the Doha round, and we want to work together towards that end. The Doha Round gives us the chance to work with Europe on services, industrials, the dispute settlement understanding, and a range of proposals to assist developing countries. Even on the topic of agriculture where our views diverge, we have a productive and frank dialogue. Because, fundamentally, our differences on issues like agriculture are set against the backdrop of historic ties and pragmatic cooperation that characterises Australian relations with the EU. I am confident that, together, we can help chart a path to the successful conclusion of the Doha Round of trade negotiations at the WTO.