Australian government breaks silence on “dream” of EU associate membership

The Australian government has responded to European Parliament President Roberta Metsola’s suggestion that Australia and New Zealand could be invited to become “associate members” of the European Union.

An Australian government spokesperson said in a statement to Euronews that the country’s relationship with the EU had “never been stronger or more important,” but said Canberra was focused on finalizing the EU-Australia trade agreement.

“This once-in-a-generation deal gives our farmers, exporters, producers and businesses access to 27 EU countries and 450 million consumers,” the spokesperson said.

“Australia is a trading nation and, in a time of global uncertainty, deepening our trading partnerships makes economic sense,” he added.

This stance follows news that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen opened the door for Canada to become an EU associate member during her key State of the European Union address in Strasbourg on Wednesday.