PM Transcripts

JIAU S THA LIA
PRIME MINISTER
FOR MEDIA 25 July__ 1979
CONSULTATIONS WITH THE COMMISSION
OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES
For the first time, regular consultations at both Ministerial
and official level are to be held between Australia and the
Commission of the European Communities.
The Commission plays a significant role in policy formulation
and these regular consultations will ensure that it is continually
aware of Australia's interests and concerns. I wrote to
President Jenkins proposing regular consultations and he has now
informed me that he welcomes this initiative.
This development is a clear vindication of the vigorous policy
adopted by this Government over the last two years aimed at
establishing a meaningful and equitable relationship between
Australia and the commmunities. Indeed, I recall that during
my viLsit to Brussels in June 1977 i~ t was exceedingly difficult
to persuade the Commission to even agre e to negotiate with
Australia. However, as a result of strong and continuing
efforts by a number of Australian Ministers, an agreement
has finally been conc" Luded with the in the context of the
. Multilateral Trade Negotiations. The agreement will provide
Australian exporters with im~ proved marketing opportunities in
Europe. I should emphasise. however that we see this agreement
as only the fLirst step in a process of change which will bring
benefit to all Australian producers.
Exchanges between Australia and the Commission have to date
concentrated on the trade and commercial relationship. I would
expect that the regular consultations would in addition canvass
other important trade-related issues in our overall relationship
such as energy and minerals. The consultations which are
expected to commence shortly represent an important development
in fostering improved relations between Australia and the E. C.