Visit to Fiji

I will travel to Suva, Fiji from 11 to 12 August to represent Australia at the second annual Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

Australia's relationships with Pacific island countries are a high priority for the Government. We are committed to working closely with our Pacific neighbours to enhance our region's economic growth, development and security.

The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is the region's principal political organisation, and fosters cooperation between governments and international agencies to achieve practical outcomes promoting stability, peace and prosperity.

During my visit, I will discuss issues of mutual concern with my Pacific foreign minister counterparts, Fijian government representatives, business leaders, regional bodies and development partners.

My meetings will focus on the political and security environment in the Pacific, including the emerging challenges of transnational crime and illegal fishing. We will also discuss ongoing support and cooperation to tackle the growing outbreaks of diseases, such as dengue fever, which have beset the region over the past decade.

While in Suva, I will deliver a speech outlining how Australia proposes to step up its engagement in the Pacific, following the Prime Minister's commitment to do so at the PIF Leaders' Meeting in Pohnpei in September 2016.

I will also announce two new innovationXchange programs to reduce the spread of dengue and strengthen health and nutrition outcomes in the Pacific.

Australia is committed to continued cooperation with Pacific island countries to achieve our shared goal of a stronger, safer and more prosperous region.