Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron has voiced his endorsement for strengthened cooperation with Australia to bolster security and stability within the Commonwealth.
Lord Cameron made these remarks in Adelaide following discussions with his Australian counterpart Penny Wong, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, and Defence Secretary Grant Shapps.
During the talks, the two nations finalized a defense and security agreement and announced a contract for British firm BAE Systems to contribute to the construction of nuclear-powered submarines under the Aukus agreement with the United States.
"This partnership has significantly strengthened in recent years," stated the Foreign Secretary. "Our discussions have revealed a shared analysis and shared values. Additionally, we have outlined a clear plan of action to support Ukraine in resisting Russian aggression, stabilize the Middle East, provide aid to Gaza, and seek solutions to ongoing conflicts."
He emphasized that the countries will collaborate to assist small island states, particularly in areas such as green finance, with a focus on the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa in October.
"We are not only concerned with ensuring the success of the upcoming heads of government meeting but also with addressing the challenges faced by Commonwealth members," he added.
Lord Cameron underscored the importance of mutual security amidst the current global uncertainties and pledged closer cooperation between Britain and Australia.
When asked about the potential impact of the US presidential election on the Aukus agreement, Mr. Cameron affirmed that the UK would work with whomever becomes president, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong alliances.
Grant Shapps reiterated the joint commitment of both countries to uphold a global rules-based order, emphasizing that Aukus aims to safeguard freedom of navigation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region and the South China Sea.
Penny Wong described the relationship between the two countries as a partnership that has evolved to meet contemporary challenges, highlighting discussions on increased cooperation in consular matters, crisis management, and addressing gender-based violence, stressing the interconnectedness of global issues. Photo by Stasyan117, Wikimedia commons.