Visit to Germany, Belgium and the United Kingdom

I will visit Germany, Belgium and the United Kingdom (UK) between 6 and 9 September to progress our dialogue on key economic, security, political and strategic interests.

In Berlin, I will participate in the inaugural Australia-Germany 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting, with Defence Minister Payne. Germany plays a pivotal role in Europe and I will seek opportunities for enhanced cooperation between our two countries, including in the fight against terrorism and countering violent extremism.

I will meet with the European Union's (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini in Brussels to discuss Australia's collaboration with the EU. We will also launch a new initiative, the EU-Australia Leadership Forum. This Forum will bring together leaders from both countries across politics, business, media, NGOs and academia to raise the profile and shape of Australia's ongoing relationship with the EU.

Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister Ciobo and I will jointly address members of the European Parliament to publicly reinforce the strength of our relationship with the EU and to build support for an Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement. I will also meet with Belgian Foreign Minister Reynders to reaffirm the strength of our bilateral relationship.

In the UK, I will join Defence Minister Payne to participate in the annual Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) with the UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and Defence Secretary Michael Fallon. This is a well-timed opportunity for Australia to deepen bilateral cooperation as the UK begins to work through the challenge of Brexit.

I will also attend the inaugural London Design Biennale, which showcases Australian excellence in design, innovation and science, supported by the Australian Government.