Australia and Germany drive cooperation in resource and energy sectors

Joint media release:

  • Minister for Foreign Affairs, The Hon Kevin Rudd MP
  • Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism, The Hon Martin Ferguson AM MP

Canberra

1 June 2011

Australia and Germany have committed to increased cooperation in the resource and energy sectors from greater investment through to closer collaboration in research and development (R&D).

Meeting in Canberra today, Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd and German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle, together with Resources and Energy Minister Martin Ferguson, signed a Joint Declaration on Energy and Resources Cooperation.

“This Joint Declaration translates into practical and beneficial work together,” Mr Rudd said.

“It forms the foundation to deepen trade and investment opportunities for Australian and German companies in the resources sector as well as diversifying investment opportunities within third countries.

“Germany, as the fourth largest economy in the world, is an important partner for Australia in promoting free, open and transparent markets in energy and resources; and a major potential investor in Australia's resource sector,” Mr Rudd said.

In 2009-10 total proposed investment from Germany in mineral exploration and development in Australia totalled $75 million.

“Australia and Germany are both committed to exploring research and development opportunities and encouraging investment across clean energy, minerals and low-carbon technology sectors,” Mr Ferguson said.

“Australia is a resource-rich nation and also a world leader in mining technology and services. Germany also has a strong record in innovation and by joining forces we can work together to create highly skilled opportunities for the future to the benefit of both our countries.”

Australia has wide-ranging dialogue and cooperation with Germany, including in the fields of non-proliferation and disarmament and scientific and technological research and development.

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