Ursula von der Leyen: Why a stronger EU–Australia relationship matters

In this age of mounting geopolitical tension, we must draw closer to partners who share our values and vision, writes the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen: 'In the first three months of this year alone, we have advanced historic agreements with Mercosur, India, and now Australia.' Photo: AP/Pascal Bastien

The latest developments in the Middle East are a stark reminder of how interconnected our world is. 

Shockwaves from the conflict in the Gulf are rapidly spreading across the global economy, driving up oil and gas prices, and pushing up costs for everything from chemicals to fertilisers and food. In this age of mounting geopolitical tension, we must draw closer to partners who share our values and vision of a rules-based world.