Bonn Conference on Afghanistan and visit to Libya

Media release

Sydney

4 December 2011

Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd departs today on a visit to Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.

Mr Rudd will meet with key international figures at the International Conference on Afghanistan in Bonn, Germany.

"The Conference comes at a critical juncture. It's ten years after the overthrow of the Taliban and transition to Afghan-led security is well underway," Mr Rudd said.

"It will also provide an opportunity to lay down markers for international engagement in support of Afghanistan beyond 2014."

Mr Rudd will also travel to Tripoli, Libya, to reinforce Australia's strong support for the country's democratic transition and will meet with the new interim Libyan Government.

"This year, Libya has highlighted how united international action can support the democratic demands of a people oppressed by a tyrannical regime," Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd said.

"The work ahead to unite Libya and to re-build its economy, its towns, and its cities will be challenging. But this visit will demonstrate Australia's commitment to Libya's new future.

"Australians can be proud that their Government was one of the first calling for a no-fly zone over Libya."

Mr Rudd will attend the 2011 Ministerial Council of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe in Lithuania to discuss issues of mutual concern, including Afghanistan, and participate in the Fourth United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Forum in Doha.

Mr Rudd will then travel to New York for a meeting of the UN Secretary General's High Level Panel on Global Sustainability and will meet with Central American foreign ministers in El Salvador to promote Australia's links with their emerging economies.

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