Foreign Minister To Visit China And Republic Of Korea
Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd will depart on Sunday on a five day visit to China and the Republic of Korea.
Mr Rudd will attend the closing ceremony of the Shanghai World Expo on 31 October.
“Australia’s pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo was visited by eight million people making it one of the most popular pavilions at the Expo,” said Mr Rudd.
Mr Rudd will also travel to Beijing, where he will give a keynote address at the Caixin Summit on China and the world.
Foreign Minister Rudd looks forward to engaging with Chinese leaders, business people and academics on the enduring Australia-China bilateral relationship and how to deepen the already strong engagement on matters of mutual interest, such promoting regional and global stability, trade, and sustainable development.
“Australia has a comprehensive, constructive and cooperative relationship with China, based on mutual respect and mutual benefit.
“This relationship is a priority for the Australian Government. China is a major player in regional and world affairs and is a key economic partner for Australia.
“China is now our largest trading partner - our trade relationship was worth $85 billion in 2009 – and is our largest export destination as well as a growing source of investment.”
In Seoul, Mr Rudd will meet with the Republic of Korea’s recently-appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Kim Sung-hwan.
“My visit to Seoul comes at an important time as the Republic of Korea prepares to host the G20 Leaders’ meeting next month,” Mr Rudd said.
“I look forward to discussing with Foreign Minister Kim strategies to drive the relationship forward, specifically through the Action Plan that supports the Joint Statement on Enhanced Global and Security Cooperation.
“Australia and the Republic of Korea are key partners in the Asia Pacific region. As like-minded middle powers we have much to contribute to the global agenda, including in the G20, APEC and the East Asia Summit.
“The Republic of Korea is our third-largest goods export market, and our cooperation on defence and security matters has strengthened significantly in recent years highlighted by the Joint Statement on Enhanced Global and Security Cooperation.”
CANBERRA
29 OCTOBER 2010