United States of America
Australia and the United States - Foreign Policy Brief
A
strong and close relationship with the United States serves
Australia's national interests and brings us significant
benefits.
Australia's longstanding partnership with the United States is
founded on a shared affinity between our people. We both have deep
democratic traditions and aspirations. We share elements of a
common heritage and a record of cooperation and sacrifice.
No
other country can match the economic size and global reach of the
United States in international affairs, nor will any do so in the
near future. Australia's ability to influence and work with the
United States is essential to our prosperity and security.
Australia's alliance relationship with the United States has
endured for over 60 years and remains vital and relevant to meeting
shared global and regional security challenges.
The
alliance gives Australia privileged access to technology and joint
training that maintains our defence capability and enhances our
ability to protect ourselves. The alliance gives Australia
intelligence that helps fight terrorism. And by providing one of
the anchors for US engagement in our region, the alliance makes an
important contribution to the stability and prosperity of the Asia
Pacific.
The
United States is Australia's single most important economic partner
country. It is one of our top merchandise trading partners, our
largest services trading partner and the major source of foreign
direct investment
the Free Trade
Agreement with the United States will deepen our economic
integration with the world's most dynamic economy and increase
Australia's wealth.
The
alliance enhances our strategic interests in the Asia Pacific
region.
Contacts
United States Political and Strategic Section
United States Branch
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Canberra ACT 0221
e-mail: us.desk@dfat.gov.au