Visit to Thailand

I will visit Thailand on 10 January to meet Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai. My visit comes at an important time for Thailand as it takes up its position as ASEAN Chair for 2019, Southeast Asia's premier representative grouping.

During the visit, I will sign a new Thailand-Australia Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber and Digital Cooperation, which will support our countries to manage cyber threats and harness opportunities for digital trade.

I will also advocate for the safe return to Australia of Mr Hakeem Alaraibi, who is currently detained in Thailand. Mr Alaraibi was granted permanent residency by the Australian Government in recognition of his status as a refugee.

Thailand is an important trade and investment partner for Australia. It is the second largest economy in South East Asia, and our 9th largest two-way trading partner.

The visit will serve as an opportunity to reiterate our support for Thailand's return to democracy, following elections that are expected to take place this year.