Australia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon. Penny Wong, will travel to the Republic of Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga and the Republic of Vanuatu this week, accompanied by the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, Assistant Minister for Immigration, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade on his first visit, to strengthen partnerships with the Pacific.

“This early visit to the region again demonstrates how deeply we value being part of the Pacific family,” Hon. Penny Wong stated today.

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

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

In Port Vila, they 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,” Hon. Wong stated today.