Europe Seeks Closer Security Ties with Australia, Says Von Der Leyen

Albanese meets Pope Leo at inaugural mass, reaffirms support for Ukraine and updates Zelenskyy on Australia’s aid and tank shipment.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen speaks during a press conference with Norway's Prime Minister at the EU Commission headquarters in Brussels on April 7, 2025. Nicolas Tucat/ AFP

The European Union has opened the door to a potential security partnership with Australia, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with global leaders in Rome during the inauguration mass of the newly appointed Pope Leo.

In a bilateral discussion held in the Italian capital, European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen described Australia as a reliable ally and emphasised the importance of strengthening ties in a volatile world.

“We are predictable, we share the same values,” Von Der Leyen said in her opening remarks at the meeting.

“So we can offer to each other stability and we’re very grateful for that. This is why we view Australia not just as a trading partner but a strategic one. We would very much like to broaden this strategic partnership.”

Albanese later told reporters that he did not want to over analyse the statement and what it meant for a potential defence arrangement with the bloc.

“Future conversations may take place either through NATO or directly between Australia and the EU.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks to the media in Canberra, Australia on May 9, 2025. Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images

He further added that Australia already maintains several defence arrangements with European nations, including Germany.

“We have participated previously in the IP4 along with Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand during NATO events. We’re open to further engagement and support, although these are still early days,” he said.

The prime minister also raised the importance of open and equitable trade, referencing Australia’s trade minister, Senator Don Farrell, and ongoing efforts to finalise the long-awaited Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement.

“We understand there were challenges in the past, particularly around agriculture, and we are hopeful these issues can be resolved.”

Negotiations on the trade pact have continued for some time, with a deal yet to be struck.

The European Union, a high-income market of nearly 446 million people with a GDP of US$18.6 trillion in 2023, ranks as Australia’s third-largest trading partner and third-biggest source of foreign investment.

If finalised, the trade agreement would grant Australian exporters access to a market of over 400 million consumers.

Meeting With The Pope

Albanese described the experience of attending the mass for Pope Leo “as deeply meaningful.”

“It was a very moving ceremony where the Pope again laid out his vision for his papacy, an important moment not just for Australia’s five million Catholics but for Catholics worldwide,” he said.

He called it a personal honour to represent Australia at such a high-profile religious occasion.

Pope Leo XIV delivers the Regina Caeli prayer after a Holy Mass for the Beginning of his Pontificate, in St Peter's square, in Vatican City, on May 18, 2025. Alberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images

Albanese reflected on how the occasion held personal significance.

“I spoke to him about my mother. I’m sure she’s looking down from heaven with the biggest smile. For her son to attend the inaugural mass of a Pope at the Vatican is something quite special.”

Ongoing Support for Ukraine

During a separate meeting on the sidelines, Albanese reiterated Australia’s ongoing support for Ukraine in the war with Russia.

He spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about Australia’s contributions and potential future involvement. Australia has committed approximately $1.5 billion in assistance to Ukraine.

Albanese reaffirmed his government’s willingness to consider sending troops as part of an international coalition if a peace initiative gains traction.

Zelenskyy urged further pressure on Moscow following stalled negotiations in Türkiye, highlighting the strategic role Australia can play.

“Together we can push this situation closer to peace by applying pressure on Russia,” he said. “We are grateful for the sanctions but believe more can be done.”

Australia has imposed sanctions on roughly 1,400 Russian individuals and entities. The Ukrainian president, however, asked for more.

Albanese signalled a willingness to consider more measures.

“We'll keep evaluating what else we can do to intensify pressure on Russia.”

The two leaders also discussed the case of Australian Oscar Jenkins, who was sentenced to 13 years in a Russian high-security prison after being captured while fighting for Ukraine in December.

“We are actively seeking his release and appreciate Ukraine’s assistance,” Albanese said, suggesting a future prisoner exchange could be explored.

Diplomatic Outreach Continues

In addition to high-level talks, Albanese also spoke briefly with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney before the mass, and held informal discussions with Germany’s Chancellor Merz and UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.

“We were there early and took the opportunity to connect with leaders I hadn’t met before,” he said. “I'll be catching up again informally with Angela Rayner later today.”

When asked about a possible meeting with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who also attended the mass, Prime Minister Albanese said he is the leader of Australia and deals directly with the U.S. president, adding he will meet him when the time comes.