26 May 2008
UK and Australian Defence ministers meet in Canberra

The two Ministers met in Canberra today, their fourth meeting since the November 2007 Australian election.

“Our discussions have been most productive and reflect the dynamic, contemporary nature of the relationship between Australia and the UK,” Mr Fitzgibbon said. “We’ve also agreed that our departments should explore ways to better exchange strategic planning and doctrine.”

Mr Browne said that their meeting had built upon the extensive discussion between Prime Ministers Rudd and Brown in London in April, particularly on emerging threats and the implications of climate change for Defence.

Broad areas of National Security and Defence policy were discussed, including the recently published UK National Security Strategy and the current Australian Defence White Paper process.

The NATO Summit at Bucharest was discussed, and both welcomed a NATO strategic approach to Afghanistan that recognised the importance of broader political and military coordination.

Both Mr Fitzgibbon and Mr Browne reiterated the strategic significance of Afghanistan and their respective national long-term commitment.

Mr Browne updated Mr Fitzgibbon on the situation in Basra and the improvements in security following recent operations by Iraqi Forces. He praised the contribution made by Australian Defence Forces under UK MND(SE) command in Southern Iraq, and noted the longstanding commitment of Australian theatre maritime and air assets.

In discussing regional security issues, both Ministers noted the importance of the Five Power Defence Arrangements as one of the few multi-lateral operationally-focused defence mechanisms in the Asia-Pacific region.