Media Release

FA22 - 10 March 2003

Australia-Indonesia Ministerial Forum

I will lead the Australian delegation to the sixth Australia-Indonesia Ministerial Forum in Jakarta on 11 March. The Forum provides a valuable mechanism for Ministers across a wide range of portfolios to consolidate their productive relations and discuss the key issues facing our two countries today.  This discussion will be of mutual importance to both countries in shaping the forward bilateral agenda. 

This Forum will focus on two key priorities: our collaborative work in combating terrorism in the region and economic reform.  These efforts are fundamental to advancing the security and prosperity of the people of our nations.  They have become more important since 11 September and the Bali atrocity.

I also welcome the participation in the Forum of business representatives from both countries.  This will provide a valuable opportunity for private sector input into the official dialogue. 

The Australian delegation will include Mr Mark Vaile (Minister for Trade), Mr Phillip Ruddock (Minister for Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs), Mr Daryl Williams (Attorney-General), Senator Amanda Vanstone (Minister for Family and Community Services), Mr Warren Truss (Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) and Mr Joe Hockey (Minister for Small Business and Tourism).

The Indonesian delegation will be led by the Coordinating Minister for the Economy Mr Dorodjatun Kuntjoro-Jakti and will include a number of Senior Ministers.

The Forum was established in 1992 to expand the relationship between the two countries into areas of practical cooperation.

Media inquiries: Chris Kenny (Ministerial) +61 02 6277 7500 / Julie McDonald (Departmental) +61 02 6261 155