Strengthening relations with Indonesia, New Zealand and Singapore

Media release

28 September 2013

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop will strengthen relations with key regional partners with bilateral visits to Indonesia, New Zealand and Singapore from 30 September to 5 October.

Ms Bishop will undertake her first visit to Indonesia as Foreign Minister when she joins the ministerial delegation accompanying the Prime Minister to Jakarta.

She will then travel to Auckland to discuss Australia's priorities in the region with Foreign Minister Murray McCully.

"This visit is an opportunity to reinforce the commitment of both our countries to work closely together in the Pacific to build economic growth and sustainable development," Ms Bishop said.

In Singapore Ms Bishop will meet Foreign Minister K. Shanmugam and other senior leaders.

"I am keen to engage early and regularly with Singapore, including to discuss how we can expand our existing people-to-people links through the New Colombo Plan," Ms Bishop said.

Ms Bishop will return to Indonesia to join Trade and Foreign Ministers in Bali for the APEC Ministers' Meeting, 4-5 October.

"APEC is a key vehicle for deepening Australia's economic integration in the region. The forum has a strong track record of collaboration on practical issues that support business and contribute to economic growth and stability," she said.