Turnbull warns Coalition that opposing EU trade pact would be a mistake
Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull said the Coalition's plan to block the EU free-trade agreement would harm Australia's economic interests and urged broader regional partnerships.
Former Liberal prime minister Malcolm Turnbull told reporters in New York that the Coalition’s decision to oppose the European Union free-trade agreement is "crazy" and would be a "terrible mistake" for Australia. He argued that, with uncertainty about whether U.S. leaders will return to multilateralism after Donald Trump’s presidency, Australia must become more self-reliant and seek leverage through multiple trade deals.
"We should pursue our own self-interest as rigorously as Trump pursues America’s," Turnbull said, adding that the country should build partnerships with regional and like-minded nations.
Turnbull highlighted that the free-trade negotiations began under a previous Coalition government, noting Australia’s low trade barriers and openness to foreign investment. He warned that opposing the deal would allow "culture war political considerations" to outweigh economic interests.
Opposition leader Angus Taylor criticised the agreement, claiming it would bind Australia to the Paris climate accord and could be used by European courts to challenge domestic policy. Turnbull, who oversaw Australia’s ratification of the Paris Agreement as prime minister, countered that similar language in the UK-Australia deal was weak and largely symbolic.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed Turnbull’s stance, saying Australia aims to be a champion of free and fair trade when he meets Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at upcoming summits.
The Senate does not hold a government majority, but the agreement could still pass with Greens support. Greens leader David Shoebridge said he is viewing the deal favourably.