Germany
The 60 year anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Germany this year focuses attention on the breadth and strength of the bilateral relationship and opportunities for closer collaboration.
"Sixty years since we established diplomatic ties, Australia and Germany stand today as two countries with shared values, shared global interests and strong links between our people." The Hon Kevin Rudd MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
Australia and Germany enjoy an open and cooperative relationship underpinned by extensive political, economic and social links. We share common values and are like-minded on many foreign policy and security issues, including our commitment to Afghanistan, non proliferation and disarmament, climate change, and counter-terrorism. Our growing development assistance partnership involves joint projects in 10 countries and is worth over $145 million.
Historical document: Statement by the Minister for External Affairs, the Rt Hon RG Casey, 28 January 1952 [PDF]
Visit by Foreign Minister Rudd to Germany on 25 January
Mr Rudd visited Berlin as a guest of German government where he met his counterpart, Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle, and will launch a program of activities to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Australian-German diplomatic relations.
- Op-ed: Australia Germany - Close Friends and Global Citizens - Looking Beyond 60
- Joint press conference with Foreign Minister Westerwelle
- Video message with HE Mr Peter Tesch, Australian Ambassador to Germany
Reception to celebrate the 60 year anniversary, National Library of Australia
German Ambassador to Australia, Dr Christoph Müller, hosted a reception on 15 February at the National Library of Australia to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Australian-German diplomatic relations. Mr Rudd addressed the audience on the significance of Australia's relationship with Germany, and highlighted his commitment, made together with German counterpart Foreign Minister Westerwelle in January, to take the Australian-German relationship to the next level through a new strategic partnership. Australian businessman, Mr Lindsay Fox AC, was decorated with a German Order of Merit and guests were invited to view the exhibition, "Handwritten: ten centuries of manuscript treasures", currently on loan from the Berlin State Library.