Login
iscover
Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles is attending the inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Summit on 29 May (today).
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
During his visit, the Deputy Prime Minister, on behalf of the Prime Minister, will meet President Yoon Suk Yeol and his Defence counterpart, Korean Minister of National Defense Lee Jong-sup.
Representatives from the 18 members of the Pacific Islands Forum have been invited to the summit in Seoul to develop stronger cooperation between Korea and the PIF for a secure, peaceful, and prosperous region.
Minister Marles said Australia and Korea share a comprehensive strategic partnership underpinned by shared values and common strategic interests.
“I look forward to visiting Seoul for the historic inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Forum Summit,” he said.
“With the release of its Indo-Pacific Strategy in December 2022, Korea demonstrates its commitment to the Pacific as an engaged and reliable partner.
“Australia welcomes Korea’s interest in deepening ties with the Pacific and looks forward to building on our foundation of shared values to promote our mutual interest in a prosperous and resilient Pacific.
“This year marks the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean War Armistice Agreement, making it a significant time to commit to ongoing stability within our region. Australia will look to commemorate this occasion with Korea later this year.”
