Palmer: Australia needs to ratify European Free Trade Agreement
United Australia Party Chairman Clive Palmer has called on federal parliamentarians to put aside political differences and support the Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement, warning that continued division risks costing Australian businesses valuable export opportunities.
Mr Palmer said the dispute over the agreement should not overshadow the national interest, with Australia needing to strengthen its position in international markets and create opportunities for local businesses and workers.
"Squabbling between political parties must stop. This is a time when Australia needs unity, not division," Mr Palmer said.
"All parties need to put aside their differences and work together in the interests of Australian businesses, workers and the broader economy.
"We should not be afraid to compete in international markets. Australia has the skills, products and resources to compete with the best in the world, but we need a government and a parliament committed to promoting our exports and opening doors for Australian businesses."
Mr Palmer said parliamentarians in both the House of Representatives and the Senate had a responsibility to consider the country's long-term economic interests.
"Every member of parliament, in both the lower and upper houses, needs to do the right thing by Australians," he said.
"That means protecting jobs, supporting trade and helping strengthen our economy. We cannot afford to let political point-scoring stand in the way of opportunities for Australian exporters.
"Trade agreements will never satisfy every interest in every industry, but we must look at the broader national picture and make decisions that give Australian businesses the best chance to succeed.
"Europe represents a significant market for Australian goods and services. We should be working to expand our opportunities there, not allowing political division to undermine them."
Mr Palmer said Australia needed a united approach to trade and economic policy if it was to reclaim a stronger position in the global economy.
"We need unity of purpose, a focus on our national interests and a willingness to back Australian businesses. Parliament must put Australians first and make decisions that protect jobs, encourage exports and strengthen our economy."
