In a significant milestone in the relationship between our two countries, the Australia-Germany Advisory Group released its final report today.
The Co-chairs of the Advisory Group, Finance Minister Mathias Cormann and German Minister of State Dr Maria Böhmer presented their report and recommendations to the Prime Minister and Chancellor Merkel, which will broaden and strengthen the relationship between Australia and Germany.
The Advisory Group focussed on identifying opportunities for strategic cooperation, building on the existing relationship between the two countries.
The initiatives in the report are designed to support partnerships in innovation and enable Australian businesses to unlock opportunities in the world's fourth largest economy.
The report contains 59 recommendations across five key themes, including:
- Increased trade and investment;
- Improved strategic dialogue and collaboration;
- Strengthened cooperation on science and education;
- Exchange on diversity, migration, integration and refugees; and
- Enhanced cultural and sporting links and cooperation on wine making.
Key initiatives in the report include a commitment of German support for negotiations towards an EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement and annual '2+2' strategic dialogue between Australia and Germany, involving Foreign and Defence Ministers from both countries and the conclusion of a more modern Double Taxation Treaty, facilitating increased trade and investment flows.
The Australia-Germany Advisory Group also comprised Australian and German leaders in science, culture and business.
For further information on the Report visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website