European Commission President makes historic visit to ANU

The European Union is the largest integrated economic area in the world, the biggest trading bloc, and a centre of research and technology for the future.  His Excellency Jose Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission, visited ANU and delivered a public lecture on Tuesday 6 September.  His presentation centred on the European Union's place in the world and specifically the complexities of this Union, as well as Europe's relationship with Australia.

President Barroso discussed the role of Europe in an ever globalised world, paying particular attention to the ongoing relationship of Australia and the European Union.  Dr Ben Wellings, Deputy-head of the School of Politics and International Relations and convenor of the new Bachelor of European Studies says "relations between Australia and the EU have been difficult in the past, but the visit of the President of the European Commission shows that things are on the up."

The visit was the first of its kind by the President of the European Commission in 30 years.  As President Borroso pointed out "our world has changed dramatically and at an increasing pace" since then.  He made particular mention of Australia being a "natural, solid and essential global partner".

This presentation was organised by the ANU Centre for European Studies which is a joint initiative funded by the European Commission and ANU.  Professor Jacqueline Lo, Director of the ANU Centre for European Studies, says "the keynote address at ANU was the only public lecture that the President delivered during his visit to Australia, and underscores the privileged position of ANU and its European hub (the Centre of European Studies) in EU - Australia relations".

President Barroso also met with Prime Minister Gillard during his visit to Australia.  "The talks between Gillard and Barroso signaled an even deeper level of cooperation between Australia and the EU, particularly with regard to aid and development in the Pacific" says Dr Wellings. 

The special relationship between Europe and Australia is at the core of the Australian National University's Bachelor of European Studies that will commence in 2012.  Students can specialise in Europe and become familiar with its history, politics, and social issues, as well as learn a European language. 

To see a full transcript of President Barroso's keynote address, please visit the Delegation of the European Union to Australia website.