Penny Wong (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Foreign Affairs) Share this | Hansard source

I'd make a few points. I suppose I'd go to the underlying proposition—which you're making politely but you are making—which is we think looking at cost and capability is a sensible, prudent and responsible way to handle procurement. In terms of our relationship with Germany, Germany is a major power. It is a major economy. It is central to the strategic and economic position of the European Union. It is an important player internationally and it has been much more forward leaning in terms of its role in the Indo-Pacific and its bilateral relationship with China in recent years. We welcome Germany's continued engagement, not only in our region, but also more broadly. It's a time where countries of similar values who believe in the international rule of law work together and we're very pleased to work with Germany. (Time expired)