Visit to the Republic of Korea

I will visit the Republic of Korea on 17 and 18 February to advance Australia's interests with one of our most important regional economic and strategic partners.

During my visit, I will have discussions with senior government figures including former President Lee Myeong-bak and Director of National Security Kim Kwan-jin to discuss a range of strategic challenges including the threat posed by North Korea.

I will launch the New Colombo Plan Internship and Mentorship Network in Korea. This network will further enhance people-to-people and institutional links between Australia and the Republic of Korea. By the end of 2017, over 540 students will have studied and undertaken work-based placements in the Republic of Korea under the New Colombo Plan.

I will participate in discussions with key business representatives to promote Australia's energy sector and visit Geoje where major components of the Ichthys LNG project in Australia are being constructed.

Australia and the Republic of Korea enjoy a warm relationship and strong links across our education and tourism sectors. We also cooperate closely as active members of international fora including the G20, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the East Asia Summit (EAS) and the MIKTA grouping (comprising Mexico, Indonesia, Korea, Turkey and Australia).

The Republic of Korea is Australia's fourth-largest overall trading partner, with two-way trade valued at almost $34 billion in 2015-16. The Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement (KAFTA) continues to deliver strong trade results for Australian business, and is supporting continued growth in our trade and investment partnership.