Questioned the status of DFAT’s feasibility study on strengthening trade with Israel.
Given the clear recommendations relating to trade and investment with the state of Israel provided by the UN Security Council, the UN Human Rights Council and international NGOs such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, has DFAT sought any external legal advice concerning issues associated with trade and investment with Israel?
Whole interaction with Mr Tim Yeend (Associate Secretary, Trade and Investment Group, DFAT) during Senate Estimates (Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Legislation Committee, Foreign Affairs and Trade Portfolio).
Senator RICE: I’m interested to know the status of DFAT’s feasibility study on strengthening trade with Israel.
Mr Yeend : There has been a feasibility study done on a possible trade agreement with Israel. It’s something that the minister is now considering in relation to next steps.
Senator RICE: Do we have a time line?
Mr Yeend : This is something we’re still discussing with the minister, so we don’t have a precise time line. But we are looking to move it ahead as quickly as we can.
Senator RICE: So the feasibility study is completed?
Mr Yeend : That is correct.
Senator RICE: So it’s basically in discussions with the minister, and there’s no time line on when things move ahead.
Mr Yeend : Yes.
Senator RICE: Okay. Given the clear recommendations relating to trade and investment with the state of Israel provided by the UN Security Council, the UN Human Rights Council and international NGOs such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, has DFAT sought any external legal advice concerning issues associated with trade and investment with Israel?
Mr Yeend : No. We haven’t sought any external legal advice, but we are in the process of briefing the minister and coming to a position on the next steps with the proposed FTA.
Senator RICE: Thank you. Thank you, Chair.