Australia, Canada will pursue EU defense pacts

Australia and the EU have initiated defense and security pact talks, with Canada expected to follow suit next week, potentially allowing both NATO allies to join the EU's military production program. The agreements, similar to one signed with the UK, aim to facilitate joint defense procurement and enhance security cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where China's military presence is growing. These pacts are a first step towards participation in the EU's SAFE program. The SAFE program, worth 150 billion euros, promotes joint public contracts and requires a defense pact for third-party participation. France also announced Bulgaria's participation in a joint radar procurement initiative.