Australian foreign minister to visit New Zealand

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Marise Payne

I will visit Auckland from 12 to 13 July to attend Indonesia’s inaugural Pacific Exposition, an event that promotes trade, investment and tourism to drive economic growth and strengthen cultural ties in the Pacific.

Australia welcomes Indonesia’s initiative, which will bring together leaders from government, business and community representatives from across the Pacific. The Expo is an opportunity to boost trade, investment and connectivity across the Pacific. I look forward to discussing this with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi in Auckland.

In 2018 two-way trade in goods and services between Australia and Pacific island countries was more than AUD10 billion, and the stock of two-way investment reached more than AUD21 billion. Australia is working closely with our Pacific island neighbours to increase our economic linkages.

While in Auckland I will meet New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, as well as other regional leaders.

I will also meet leading businesswomen to discuss women’s leadership, entrepreneurship and economic security.

Australia is taking its engagement in the Pacific to a new level and is committed to working with all partners to meet the needs of the region and contribute to its security, stability and prosperity.

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