By Deborah Bouchez Source: President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb described  foreign policy as resting on three essential pillars: values, interests, and power. In an increasingly fractured international environment, where authoritarian assertiveness is on the rise and alliances are being tested, many observers have turned to realism to explain state behaviour. Realist thinkers emphasise power and survival above all. But in such a world, can values and interest

By Mariami Modebadze Source: Politico Negotiations toward a free trade agreement (FTA)  between Australia and the European Union (EU) were officially authorised on June 18, 2018. The partnership between the two signified an intention to establish a comprehensive and ambitious trade agreement,  which aimed to remove barriers to doing business for companies operating between the EU and Australia. At the centre of the FTA was a shared commitment to sustainable development and e

By Sybilla George Source: DFAT, Australia In 2013, the Minister for Foreign Affairs in the Abbott government, Julie Bishop, announced the...