Doorstop interview with Foreign Minister Stephen Smith, Perth
Main topic: Postponement of president Obama's visit
Transcript, proof copy E&OE
4 June 2010
REPORTER: You would have heard about Barack Obama's decision that he is going to have to delay his trip to Australia again. What's your thoughts on that ?
STEPHEN SMITH: Obviously we are disappointed, but also we understand very well the reasons for his inability to come. He is always welcome to come to Australia. He has indicated that at a convenient time in the future he will make his visit to Australia and also to Indonesia.
Obviously there is disappointment, but the relationship between Australia and the United States is so strong that our disappointment is tempered with the fact that we know the relationship is a long term relationship, and that will continue.
REPORTER: It's the second time he has delayed though. Does that cause you any concern?
STEPHEN SMITH: He has had, in our view, good domestic reasons to defer his trip on a couple of occasions. We very much understand that often domestic political considerations have to be taken into account. The President has to deal with a very difficult environmental issue and we understand that entirely.
REPORTER: Had a special sitting of Parliament been convened for this occasion? I know it was on his first, or are there going to be any sort of arrangements that will now need to be cancelled?
STEPHEN SMITH: We have made it clear that whenever the President comes he will be welcomed not just by the Government, but by the Parliament and by the Australian people.
In these matters we always wait for the White House to publish the details of the President's visit. On this occasion, again, the White House has indicated he is unable to come on the suggested timetable. We are disappointed but we understand the reasons why it has occurred.
REPORTER: You don't think it's not the case that Australia is not a priority for Mr Obama?
STEPHEN SMITH: If you look at the President's remarks, his conversation last night with the Prime Minister, the engagement that we've had, not just with the Obama Administration, but previously with the Bush Administration, the alliance between Australia and the United States is long term, strong and enduring. That alliance has served both countries very well for over 60 years and that continues to be the case.
The President and the Prime Minister speak on a regular basis. I speak with my counterpart, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, on a regular basis. Of course, we always welcome the President to come to Australia, but when he is able to come, is of course, a matter for him.
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