A landmark moment for Australia–Europe relations

 

Following the historic milestone on 24 March with the signing of the Australia–EU Free Trade Agreement, it was a privilege to attend the European Australian Business Council (EABC) lunch at the Parliament House in Sydney yesterday, where we heard directly from European Commission President H.E. Ursula von der Leyen on the significance of this agreement not only as a trade deal, but as a strategic partnership grounded in shared values and long-term collaboration.

It was also a pleasure to attend alongside H.E. Klas Molin, Ambassador of Sweden to Australia, Penny George, Director of Corporate Affairs, AstraZeneca and Vice President SACC and Ludvig Landgren, President and CEO Ericsson Australia & New Zealand and SACC Board Director.

A sincere thank you to Jason Collins and EABC for organising the event and for the important role EABC have played in actively driving industry engagement throughout the FTA process – bringing together collective business input and supporting dialogue with negotiators in the lead-up to this agreement.

The agreement opens access to one of the world’s largest markets, creating new opportunities across sectors including clean energy, critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, services, and technology. Alongside new partnerships in security and defence, it also strengthens collaboration in research and innovation through Horizon Europe—positioning both regions for long-term growth.

A strong reminder of the importance of trusted partnerships in an increasingly complex global environment, and of the opportunities ahead for the Swedish–Australian business community.

Camilla Jennings, General Manager, Swedish Australian Chamber of Commerce

#AustraliaEUFTA #FTA #EABC #Trade #Innovation #TeamSwedenAus #SACC