Joint Statement - Five Eyes defence Ministers' meeting

The defence ministers from the Five Eyes nations (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States) met via videoconference on 22-23 June. 

Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to advance defence and security cooperation on matters of common interest to support and defend a stable, rules-based, global order, that is increasingly being challenged.

Ministers recognised the role of regional partners and institutions in shaping globally and across the Indo-Pacific a stable and secure, economically resilient community, where the sovereign rights of all states are respected. 

Ministers discussed new opportunities for Five Eyes partners to further strengthen their relationship, build resilience, address challenges to international rules and norms and advance cooperation across key lines of effort in an increasingly complex and challenging geostrategic environment.

Ministers committed to meet regularly as part of efforts to address existing and emerging security challenges, and to advance their shared values of democracy, freedom and respect for human rights.

The following statement can be attributed to The Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC:

“Strengthening Australia’s defence relationships is one of my top priorities which is why I have maintained a high-tempo of international engagement during COVID-19.

“To date, I have conducted over 25 virtual calls with key international counterparts.

“I convened today’s meeting to discuss ways that we can further strengthen our Five Eyes defence partnership in an increasingly complex and challenging geostrategic environment.

“I am pleased that we have agreed to meet regularly to continue these productive discussions.”