SENATOR THE HON PENNY WONG
LEADER OF THE GOVERNMENT IN THE SENATE
MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS

THE HON MATT THISTLETHWAITE MP
ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR IMMIGRATION
ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND TRADE

This week, we will travel to the Republic of Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga and the Republic of Vanuatu as Australia continues to strengthen our enduring partnership with the Pacific.

This early visit to the region again demonstrates how deeply we value being part of the Pacific family.

This will be the first official overseas visit for the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Matt Thistlethwaite.

While in Suva, we will meet Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sitiveni Rabuka to discuss strengthening our Vuvale Partnership, deepening our trade arrangements, and boosting our cooperation on development, climate action, and resilience.

In Nuku’alofa, we will meet Prime Minister ‘Aisake Eke and Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces His Royal Highness The Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ‘Ulukalala to advance our deep partnership, and our shared Pacific Islands Forum priorities with Tonga, the current Forum Chair.

In Port Vila, we will meet Prime Minister Jotham Napat and senior government ministers. We will reaffirm Australia’s commitment to elevate our bilateral relationship through the development of the Nakamal Agreement with Vanuatu, including strengthening our community and First Nations connections.

Australia is a respectful, reliable and transparent partner, responding to the region’s needs and priorities.

In uncertain times, Australia and the Pacific are counting on each other as we build a region that is peaceful, stable and prosperous.

Media Contacts:
Foreign Minister's Office: +61 2 6277 7500

Authorised by Senator the Hon Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Australia.