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

This week I will travel to New Caledonia and Tuvalu for the first time as Foreign Minister to listen first-hand to their priorities and build on our close relationships.

The Albanese Government has shown its strong commitment to working with the Pacific family to deliver Pacific priorities, including action on climate change and recovery from Covid-19.

This visit will be my tenth to the Pacific as Foreign Minister and fulfills the Government’s commitment to visit all 17 of our fellow Pacific Islands Forum members.

Australia’s longstanding relationship with New Caledonia spans people, economic and commercial ties, environmental protection, as well as strong defence cooperation with French authorities in New Caledonia.

I will meet the High Commissioner of the French Republic in New Caledonia Mr Louis Le Franc, and President of the Government of New Caledonia Mr Louis Mapou.

I am honoured to have the opportunity to address the Congress of New Caledonia on Australia’s regional vision and the value of New Caledonia’s regional engagement since it became a full member of the Pacific Islands Forum in 2016.

In Tuvalu, I will meet with acting Prime Minister Ampelosa Tehulu and his cabinet colleagues to discuss Australia’s ongoing partnership and development support for Tuvalu’s social, economic and security priorities.

Tuvalu is on the front line of climate change, and I will reiterate Australia’s commitment to climate action, including our bid to co-host COP31 with other Pacific countries in 2026.

A strong and united Pacific Islands Forum is central to supporting a region that is peaceful, prosperous, and resilient.

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

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