HE Costume Museum hosted a commemorative event marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Spain and Australia. The two nations highlighted their friendship and ongoing cooperation across political, economic, social, and cultural ties.
The occasion also aligned with National Reconciliation Week, a yearly reminder of Australia’s indigenous history and culture and the importance of inclusive communities.
Attendees included officials, ambassadors, business leaders with interests in Australia, and notable figures from social and cultural institutions who gathered as part of this broader dialogue.
Sophia McIntyre, the Australian Ambassador to Spain, spoke about shared interests in multilateralism and a rules-based international order. She emphasized the common agenda that defends the rights of women and girls, promotes human rights globally, and supports peace and security. She condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine and reaffirmed Australia and Spain’s commitment to international norms.
Angeles Moreno Bau, Spain’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Global Affairs, highlighted the strong economic and commercial links between the two countries. She noted that around one hundred leading Spanish companies operate in Australia across areas such as security, defense, infrastructure, and renewable energy projects.
Since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations in October 1967, the partnership has centered on political, economic, and cultural collaboration. Spain opened its first embassy in Canberra on May 3, 1968, underscoring a long-standing commitment to the relationship.
The celebration coincided with National Reconciliation Week, observed from 27 May to 3 June, which aims to strengthen bonds among diverse Australians and remains a central element of the nation’s history and culture.
From left to right in a photo: Wu Haitao, Chinese Ambassador to Spain; Noel Campbell, former Ambassador to Australia and his wife Orieta Zamorano de Campbell; Javier Moll, President of Prensa Ibérica; Arantza Sarasola, Vice President of Prensa Ibérica.
Gary Thomas, the first vice-chancellor for Education, Research and Indigenous Engagement at RMIT University, stressed the importance of listening and learning together to deepen alliances in a global context.
joint declaration
The Australian Prime Minister visited Spain in June 2022 and met with Spain’s head of government. The two leaders signed a joint declaration reaffirming bilateral commitments grounded in shared values, multilateralism, and close economic ties. The visit marked the first bilateral trip by an Australian Prime Minister to Spain and was described as a new phase of cooperation, with emphasis on cultural and educational exchanges and the creation of a dedicated council to promote ties between businesses and civil society in both nations.
Key topics at the bilateral meeting included climate action, general security, the Ukraine conflict, and new opportunities for international investment. The leaders also discussed accelerating collaboration in science and technology.
Economy and Defense
Trade and investment between Spain and Australia remain robust. Spanish firms bring expertise in transportation, infrastructure, and renewable energy to Australian projects, while Australian companies show growing interest in Spain, particularly in finance, software, and mining sectors. Both nations are exploring new paths to cooperation that support the transition to clean energy while maintaining energy security. A bilateral framework to promote scientific and technological collaboration is also under development.
During the anniversary events, the Australian role in Spain’s defense and security landscape was highlighted. Notable defense collaborations, including naval vessel projects, reflect a broader strategic alignment and the potential for deeper engagement in the defense sector over the medium and long term.
Several Spanish companies have expanded their presence with significant contracts in defense equipment and related services, signaling a renewed phase of bilateral engagement with strong long-term prospects.
cultural cooperation
Cultural ties between the two countries have grown since the Cervantes Institute established its Sydney headquarters in 2009. Spain’s commitment to cultural exchange with Australia remains active, including collaborative events and ongoing programs that promote Spanish language and culture. The 2007 protocol for cultural cooperation between Spain’s Ministry of Culture and Australian institutions laid the groundwork for joint activities with universities and libraries, strengthening academic and cultural links across both nations.
The cultural exchange program has featured performances and exhibitions highlighting both Spanish and Australian Indigenous art, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. The wealth of artistic collaborations continues to enrich the shared cultural landscape between Spain and Australia.
Overall, the fifty-five years of friendship have deepened ties across multiple sectors. The partnership now includes notable milestones in defense, industry, and culture, reflecting a mutual respect and a shared vision for a collaborative future across both countries.