Australia's foreign minister has started a European tour in Athens, welcoming a recent initiative by the European Union to boost its presence in the Pacific region despite a spat with EU member France over the cancellation of a major submarine order.
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The EU initiative was announced in September and includes plans to increase a naval presence by member countries and build stronger defence ties with countries in the region.
"There is no question that, globally, we are facing a more strategically contested environment and it has never been more important to work together in support of international rules, norms and standards," Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne told reporters in Athens.
"Australia strongly supports the EU's Indo-Pacific Strategy. The EU's engagement in the Indo-Pacific is key to upholding rules and norms and supporting states' resilience."
Payne will visit Belgium and Austria after her stop in Greece and will meet in Brussels with EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell.
Australian Associated Press
