Visit to Israel and the Palestinian Territories

Australia and Israel enjoy a deep friendship, underpinned by historical and community ties. Australia's Jewish community makes a significant contribution to our nation.

I will visit Israel and the Palestinian Territories from 3 to 5 September to reaffirm the strength of the Australia-Israel bilateral relationship and to discuss the Middle East peace process and Australia's development assistance to the Palestinian Territories.

During my visit to Israel I will undertake a number of bilateral meetings with senior Israeli leaders including President Rivlin, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and Defence Minister Lieberman to promote bilateral cooperation, the development of a treaty on innovation, and to discuss regional security and the Middle East peace process.

In Jerusalem I will attend a wreath laying ceremony at Yad Vashem, the Martyrs' and Heroes' Memorial of the Holocaust. In Tel Aviv I will visit Australia's innovation 'landing pad' which is helping ambitious Australian entrepreneurs tap into Israel's well-developed innovation industry.

During my visit to the Palestinian Territories I will meet with Prime Minister Hamdallah and Economy Minister Odeh. I will also meet with Australia Awards alumni who have returned to the Palestinian Territories to use the skills and knowledge they gained in Australia.