New Chair of the Council for Australian-Arab Relations
Media Release
Canberra
24 February 2011
Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd today announced the appointment of Mr Ahmed Fahour, Australia Post CEO, as the new Chair of the Council for Australian-Arab Relations (CAAR).
Mr Fahour has made an outstanding contribution to society and the business community in Australia, enriched by his understanding of issues affecting Australians of Arab descent.
He replaces Dr Glen Simpson who provided vision and energy as CAAR Chair from 2007 to 2010, and has agreed to continue as Deputy Chair from 2011.
CAAR promotes cultural, educational, media, sporting and scientific exchanges between Australia and the Arab world. Its projects enhance mutual understanding and stronger people-to-people links.
It was established by the Australian Government in 2003 to enhance Australia's relations with Arab countries in support of Australia's interests.
Australia's commercial ties with Arab countries are growing. Two-way trade with Arab League countries was worth $10.7 billion in 2010. This comprised substantial agricultural and resource exports from Australia.
Mr Fahour joins six other CAAR Members:
- Dr Glen Simpson, Global Leader, Coffey International Development
- Dr Kevin Moriarty, Executive Chairman of Terramin Australia
- Dr Anne Aly, Senior Lecturer at Edith Cowan University
- Mr Anthony Abraham, Executive Director, Macquarie Funds Group, and Joint CEO, Macquarie Agricultural Funds Management
- Mr Syd Giller, Director, Austanz International
- Ms Libby Lloyd AM, Chair, National Council to Reduce Violence against Women.
Media enquiries
- Minister's office: (02) 6277 7500
- DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555