Journalist: Good afternoon, Minister. Has the Prime Minister's discussions with people in the EU had any kind of impact on EU trade negotiations?
Minister for Trade: Look, they're very positive. Very pleased that the Prime Minister was able to raise trade issues with President von der Leyen. Tomorrow I'm speaking with my counterpart. This will be our third conversation. I spoke to him during the course of the election. I said, look, we're very keen to restart negotiations. He sent me a very warm message on election night, congratulating us on our re-election. Now I'm talking with him tomorrow. We are keen to progress free trade discussions to get the removal of tariffs. Tariffs are a big topic right at the moment. And those countries around the world who are prepared to talk with us about the removal of tariffs, like the Europeans, like the Indians, like the United Arab Emirates, we want to talk with those countries and make progress on getting more free trade agreements.
Journalist: Does the suggestion of a defence agreement between Australia and the EU make your conversation about trade any easier, or are these two separate issues?
Minister for Trade: Look, we share the values of the Europeans, particularly as it relates to the war between Ukraine and Russia. We want Russia out of Ukraine and that country to be restored to its democratic rights.
I think trade and defence are separate issues. We are keen to proceed right now with discussions about a new free trade agreement with Europeans, and that's what I'll be doing with my counterpart.
Journalist: On geographic indicators how will that impact the free trade agreement getting over the line?
Minister for Trade: Look, this has been a difficult issue. There's been a few difficult issues. There's that issue, there's access for Australian beef and lamb into the European markets, and the Europeans have a number of issues that they want to raise. I think if there's some goodwill between us and the Europeans, I think we can get a free trade agreement across the board.
Journalist: Minister, how far will the European farmers have to move on this? You were unhappy last time because of the market access. How much more are we looking for?
Minister for Trade: Look, we are after a realistic commercial offer in respect of access to beef and lamb into the European market, and that's what I'll be seeking. And I'm hopeful that if there's some goodwill on both sides, we can get this agreement across the board.