Diplomatic Corps visit to South Australia
From 19-21 March, I will showcase South Australian business, tourism and culture when I host around 80 of the most senior Canberra-based foreign diplomatic corps – the largest ever visit of this kind.
The three-day visit will give Ambassadors and High Commissioners to Australia an insight into the wealth and dynamism of opportunities that exist in South Australia, enabling them to communicate the investment and trade opportunities to their governments and citizens.
The value of South Australia's exports has grown almost six per cent annually over the last five years, with more than 15 per cent growth in 2013-14. South Australia is making its name as a centre of high-value agriculture - with wine, aquaculture and organic food exports growing to meet regional demand for quality produce.
At a briefing hosted by Premier Jay Weatherill, he and his senior ministers will outline South Australian trade and investment opportunities; Defence SA Chair Air Chief Marshall Sir Angus Houston AK AFC will address key South Australian security issues; and Penfolds Chief Winemaker Peter Gago will speak on South Australia's viticulture successes.
The diplomats will tour the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, which is at the forefront of Australia's expertise in medical research and cooperation between government, universities and the private sector.
Adelaide University's George Gollin Professor of Economics, Kym Anderson, and New Colombo Plan mobility grant recipients will address delegates on Australia's agricultural research and its relationship to development and food security.
The program includes a trade fair managed by Food SA in the Barossa Valley and an opportunity to meet producers on Kangaroo Island. The group will also be exposed to ecological protection practice and eco-tourism opportunities in Seal Bay Conservation Park and meet local producers and businesses promoting this unique wilderness.
His Excellency Hieu Van Le AO, Governor of South Australia, and Mrs Le will also host a reception for the diplomats.