EU - Australian cooperation in the field of defence. The case of Poland

Abstract

The article presents the issues of cooperation between Poland and Australia in the area of defence.
The basis for establishing relations between these two states are the European roots of Australia
and its economic, political and cultural ties with Europe. Australia has become one of the
most important partners of the European Union, as it is undoubtedly evidenced by the currently
negotiated free trade agreement. Australian – EU relations are also being strengthened in terms of
security and defence. A reflection of the intensification of these contacts are joint actions in the
field of counteracting terrorism, organized crime or purchasing weapons. Cooperation on the Australia
– EU line has had a positive impact on Polish-Australian relations in the field of defence.
The basis for their further development are shared traditions, values and interests. Australia’s interest in Poland as a potentially important partner not only on the economic or political ground,
but also on defence, results in announcements of enhanced bilateral cooperation, exchange of experience
in the field of development of defence capabilities and the armaments industry as well as
the transfer of intellectual property. The aim of the analysis is to show the present state and perspectives
of Polish-Australian cooperation in connection with declarations of the institutionalisation
of these relations in the form of a cooperation agreement in the field of defence.