Media release

28 May 2008

Fifth Anniversary of the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI)

Australia will join more than 85 other countries at a Senior-Level Meeting in Washington today to reaffirm our long-standing commitment to the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) and set strategic directions for its future.

The PSI is the international community's single most practical means of cooperating to prevent illicit trafficking in weapons of mass destruction.

Australia has been an active PSI supporter and participant since the Initiative was established in 2003. The Senior-Level Meeting hosted by the United States on 28 May marks the PSI's Fifth Anniversary.

I have asked Mr David Ritchie, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, to attend the Meeting as Australia's representative.

The Meeting will send a strong signal to would-be proliferators that PSI countries are politically and practically committed to stopping illicit weapons of mass destruction trade.

Australia will continue to support and pursue the goals of the PSI and contribute actively to further strengthen and expand participation in the Initiative.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555