Canberra
Prime Minister Julia Gillard will travel to the Cook Islands to attend the Pacific Islands Forum from 29 August to 1 September.
The Prime Minister will meet other Pacific leaders to discuss common action to tackle the region's key political, economic and development challenges, including sustainable management and conservation of marine resources, economic integration and resilience, gender equality, human capital development and adapting to climate change.
The Forum will also provide an opportunity to progress discussions with regional counterparts on implementing the recommendations of the Expert Panel on Asylum Seekers.
Australia is committed to the stability and prosperity of the region, to its close partnership with Pacific Island neighbours, and to advancing our common interests.